We offer day services through three day centres in the middle of Gravesend, catering for a range of needs, from our high support unit at the Robbie Centre, to work opportunities and independent living support at SAND day centre, and our specialist art studio Artrack.

As well as focusing on the effects of autism on people’s lives, our day services provide activities which reflect adult life. People using our services take part in purposeful occupations which enable them to gain skills and to enjoy themselves.

I have always been proud of my daughter for who she is. I am now proud of her for the things I thought she would never achieve.
Parent

Leisure and learning activities

Everyone we work with uses SPELL and TEACCH. These approaches provide essential structure and a means of clear communication designed to support people with autism. We also use other forms of communication such as social stories, ®Makaton and PECS.

On these pages are some examples of the activities we can offer – there are many more, and we are always open to new ideas.

Robbie Centre

At the Robbie Centre we provide intensive one-to-one support to help people with complex needs to develop their life skills and communication techniques.

Each person using the centre has their own programme which we design to overcome or reduce the effects of autism, and to enable them to live a rich and fulfilling life. They take part in a wide range of activities, including many in the community, all with the highest levels of staff support.

SAND

The SAND day centre provides activities and support both at the centre and in the community which help people to develop communication and social skills, learn and prepare for work, and have fun.

In our communication groups people build their listening and observation skills and their understanding of verbal and physical language, and interact with their peers.

We provide support to people on work placements and who are attending college to help them improve their employment prospects and gain qualifications.

We also run specific programmes to help people build their communication, social and imagination skills.

We find plenty of time to enjoy ourselves – amongst other activities, we swim, horse ride, trampoline, train at the gym, and visit local cafes and restaurants.

ARTRACK

Artrack is our specialist centre providing studio facilities and training for new and established artists with autism.

For some people, Artrack is their place of work and they have their own dedicated space. Artrack artists have had many successful exhibitions and are established artists in the community.

Others work in the art therapy and woodwork areas, producing projects for sale or to use at home. Some attend classes at the local adult education centre in art, pottery and lace making.

The activities and support we offer

At our centres:

  • Accredited programmes such as ASDAN (Towards Independence modules)
  • Dance and drama
  • IT
  • Communication sessions
  • Independent living skills
  • Indoor games and activities
  • Photography
  • Current affairs
  • Art and pottery
  • Model making


In the community:

  • Golf
  • Trampolining
  • Horseriding
  • Indoor bowls
  • Ten-pin bowling
  • Cycling
  • Swimming
  • Shopping
  • Eating out
  • Travel training
  • Conservation and horticulture

 

Person-centred approach

We want every adult who uses our service to have the opportunity to grow and thrive, so we put them at the centre of our planning process. We work closely with each person to create their individual plan and put it into practice: through our understanding and experience we enable people to communicate effectively and to express their wishes. We also ensure that family, carers, friends and staff are full partners in the planning process.

Our team

Every member of staff is fully trained to support people with autism, and continues to build on their knowledge throughout their career. We staff each activity according to each person’s needs.