Family Development

Made possible from a wealth of experience gathered over four decades serving the North-east we’ve created a Family Resources website just for you.

Brought together by our Family Development team, members of our Neurodiversity think tank and from families sending us their tips and advice we’ve put together a bank of free resources to help you, as part of our valued community, to navigate the day-to-day challenges of life.

Communication

The way autistic people communicate may be considered different to non-autistic people, but this shouldn’t be seen as flawed, instead it should be recognised as a difference. This section will provide rich insight into the topic of communication from both an autistic and non-autistic perspective.

Communication aids

Communication checklist

Communication differences

Exploring friendships

Echolalia

Social Stories

Introduction to selective mutism

Intro to objects of reference

Developing comprehension

Creating relationship circles

Conversations with Marie Sowter

Comic Strip Conversations

Latest

Runners take on London Marathon for NEAS

Two runners taking on the 2024 London Marathon smashed their fundraising goals, raising over £3000 for NEAS.
You can really take your career here as far as you want

A drive for facing new challenges helped Rae Markham progress her career with NEAS, and now she wants new staff to have the same opportunities.
I look back and know I've done something special

Cath Todd has worked in residential care with NEAS for more than 30 years and says it has been a hugely rewarding career.
Outgoing Mayor raises over £42,000 for charities

NEAS is hugely grateful for the support from former Mayor of Stockton-on-Tees Jim Beall, who marked his final engagement in the office with a stunning donation to his chosen charities.

Seasonal Resources

Seasonal periods can be challenging for many autistic people, with changes to the environment and the hustle and bustle these periods can bring.
Diet and Nutrition

Diet and nutrition are a key element of everyone's lives, but we know that for autistic people this can create challenges.
Staying Safe

Staying safe is paramount for all of us and as family members one of your main priorities will be to keep your family member safe and well.
Transitions

Transitions are a part of everyday life, some examples include bigger transitions like moving house or starting a new school to smaller transitions such as moving from one task to another in the classroom.
Toileting

Toileting challenges are often common in autistic people and an area that many families often feel they need more support with.
Sleep

Sleep is an essential process for every human being; not getting enough if it can have detrimental effects on the whole family’s wellbeing.
Sensory

Our senses are the window into the world and they are vital to help us understand and make sense of what is happening in the world around us.
Puberty

Puberty can be a challenge for anybody but for autistic people neurological differences may make this chapter in life harder to navigate.
Out and About

For many parents/carers taking their family member out and about in the community can be a big worry. These worries could arise from a multitude of different factors.
Navigating the System

Here you can find key information that will help you day-to-day. From grants to access, to free equipment, this is the one-stop resource to explore all that is potentially available to you.

Make a donation

Help us to continue making a positive difference to the lives of autistic individuals, and their families, across the region. Read more

Donate Fundraise

Everyday Equality Campaign

We are highlighting the lived experiences of autistic and neurodivergent people in five areas of everyday life: education, health, travel, employment and finance. That’s why we’re calling the campaign Everyday Equality. Read more