Social Groups FAQ

As a result of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Autism West has suspended face to face services for now to ensure the health and wellbeing of all in our community.

After consultation with our social group participants, Autism West is delighted to announce the launch of our virtual social groups on Wednesday 1 April! These groups will be facilitated by our current group leaders, maintaining continuity for participants, employment for our valued staff, as well as an opportunity for new participants to join in. If you wish to enrol, or enquire about our social groups, please email enrolments@autismwest.org.au.

For any enquiries about other services, please email info@autismwest.org.au.

Using a strength-based approach, Autism West facilitates social groups for young people the autism spectrum between 10 – 30 years of age in Perth.

Our programs proudly support over 100 young individuals on a weekly basis across our various locations, in line with the school term calendar. In addition, we offer a school holiday program, Telethon Holiday Makers, aimed at children and teenagers between the ages of 5 and 18.

We offer a range of age appropriate activities in our social groups that are focused on developing the strengths and interests of the individuals in a safe and supported environment. Active involvement in decision making is encouraged within our groups from all participants and we delight in welcoming their input to expand our programs, develop connections and allow these incredible individuals to flourish.

Where Are Your Social Groups Located?

Autism West offers a range of social groups tailored to the interests of our members on the autism spectrum in various locations North and South of the river in the Metropolitan Perth area.

We will run social groups in the following areas:

Claremont
Fremantle
Marangaroo
Rockingham
South Fremantle

How Do Your Social Groups Work?

Our Social Groups are developed, planned, and facilitated with active involvement of group members and Autism West staff.

Together, we identify interests and establish goals, planning how to achieve these together. Members then discuss and plan future sessions, which can include incursions, community outings, special guests, and special interest projects.

What Can I Expect to Achieve?

Using a strengths-based approach centred around special interest projects and diverse social groups, our overall aim is to engage and motivate participants and build feelings of self-worth. Together, we identify interests and establish goals, planning how to achieve these together.

We help our members achieve:

Specific skills development – for example coding, film making, robotics, cooking, art, digital media
Developing social skills
Using technology
Building friendships
Developing leadership skills
Becoming a youth / autism advocate
Building resilience
Participating in community activities
Have fun!

The Telethon Holiday Makers Program

Our Telethon Holiday Makers Program caters to kids and young adults on the spectrum between the ages of 5 -18 years of age, tailoring support to Low, Moderate and High Needs. This is a great introduction into our social groups and our holistic strengths-based approach.

Our holiday program benefits families by providing:

- - Peace of mind knowing there are suitable and fitting holiday activitiies for children
  - A safe and nurturing place for participants amongst like minded individuals
  - Social interaction opportunities
  - Quality time to spend with the remainder of the family

The program runs from Monday to Friday, except on public holidays, and morning and afternoon tea are provided, however we ask that parents provide a packed lunch for the morning or full day session.

How Do I Enrol?

If you know what group you would like to join, you can complete an expression of interest form now. Once we receive your expression of interest form, we will contact you with paperwork that must be filled out and sent back to us. Once paperwork is received the details will be reviewed by administration, if accepted a trial or enrolment date will be set.

New clients can book in for one free trial session to decide if the group is the right fit.

New clients are also welcome to join throughout the term if there is space, and you are more than welcome to attend a trial visit to see if the group is the right fit for you.

Invoicing will be issued depending on funding.
We cannot guarantee a place until you are accepted into the program.
All sessions are chargeable unless Cancellation Policy is applied. This will be at our discretion.
Social groups may change or be cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. If a group is cancelled we will contact you as soon as possible and refund you the fee for cancelled sessions, or provide you a credit for the following term.

What happens if I can’t attend?

Please read our Cancellation Policy for details.

How Do Find Our More?

Please contact us if you would like to discuss a payment plan or for information on funding opportunities. You can contact our office on 08 9431 2111 or email us at enrolments@autismwest.org.au.