Cygnet Autism Support presents Cygnet Plus

Sleep Programme & Siblings Programme

The Sleep Programme (4th Edition) and Sibling Programme (4th Edition) are evidence‑informed resources designed to help parents and carers of autistic children and young people better understand  and support the needs of their family. Developed by the Cygnet Autism Support Team in collaboration with people with lived experience and specialist practitioners, the programmes have been thoughtfully updated to reflect parent feedback, provider insights, and the latest research.

Become a Provider

Cygnet Core and Cygnet Plus

Make an enquiry

Understanding sleep and supporting sleep

Sleep is consistently one of the most significant challenges families tell us about when they access our core programme. This dedicated Sleep Programme offers practical strategies and reassurance, making it a vital part of the support available to families.

Programme content includes:

  • Updated, realistic discussions around melatonin, co-sleeping and technology.
  • Practical, holistic strategies to help families understand and improve sleep for autistic children.

“I can’t thank you enough for running the course…I can’t tell you what a difference it is making to have a proper night’s sleep! When I attended the course, I was almost at breaking point”

L - Parent of 3

Understanding siblings and supporting siblings

Families frequently report challenges balancing the varied needs of each child, particularly when autism intersects with typical developmental stages. The update places a strong emphasis on understanding these complexities and providing practical, family‑centred strategies

Programme content includes:

  • Emotional experiences of siblings
  • Perspectives from autistic children & young people
  • Strengths‑based relationship building
  • Crisis planning for unsafe behaviours

‘‘It was great knowing the different approach to the different stages in the children’s stages of growing up. We don’t get given a rule book, so it was great to have some insight and guidance on that… every part was helpful…There was nothing that I didn’t like or find unhelpful’

M.H. - Parent of 4

Understanding Puberty, Sexual Wellbeing and Relationships

This programme is currently under development.

Update coming soon. Contact Cygnet Autism Support for further details.

Questions?

Read frequently asked questions. If you can’t find the answer you are looking for email cygnet@barnardos.org.uk or phone 07596 569702  or 07729 116214 

01

Who are the Cygnet Plus sessions suitable for?

The programme supports families with children aged 5+ who are either autistic or on the neurodevelopmental assessment pathway. While the content focuses on autistic children, the approach supports shared understanding and whole-family wellbeing.

02

Do Parent/Carer's need to have completed the Cygnet Core programme before attending the additional sessions?

No – the Cygnet Plus additional sessions can be attended as a stand-alone course or in conjunction with the Cygnet Core programme.

03

How do I access the material?

If you are a provider:

You can request access to the programme through our Become a Provider page, where you’ll find a simple enquiry form. If you’d prefer to speak to someone directly, you can also email us at cygnet@barnardos.org.uk to discuss how the programme could support your service.

If you are a parent or carer:
Please contact your local Cygnet Autism Support provider to check whether they offer the Sleep Programme. You can find the details of all current providers on our Provider page.