National Autistic Society partnership leads to success of bespoke Autistic Spectrum Disorder service
In collaboration with the National Autistic Society, St Andrew’s Healthcare has created a unique new service for men with Autistic Spectrum Disorder, specifically those with Asperger’s Syndrome or Higher Functioning Autism.
Launched in August, Hereward Wake at St Andrew’s, Northampton, is a 13 bed low secure unit which incorporates a number of “on ward” therapy rooms. Conceived, planned and implemented to meet the needs of the charity’s Autistic service users, every detail has been integrated to create a low stimulus environment.
“Hereward Wake comprises sophisticated flicker-free lighting systems, low noise air conditioning and carefully considered floor plans, layouts and colourways - all of which work to reduce arousal in service users and promote steady progression through our care pathways”, said Colin Doyle, Clinical Service Development Manager of Men’s Services.
“Fundamental to making sure we had the right kind of environment was the close links we were able to establish with the National Autistic Society and their service managers”, continued Colin. “They, and Dr Ekkehart Staufenberg, Consultant Forensic Neuro Psychiatrist and consultant to the project, certainly helped to enhance our understanding of the effects that sensory over-stimulation could have on those on the spectrum. The investment and knowledge they shared with us made sure that we were going to get this part of the service on the right track”.
“We’re really excited to deliver a completely bespoke facility that offers the appropriate environment for these challenging needs” added Colin. “What really makes this project such a success is the high quality clinicians and practitioners that we have attracted to St Andrew’s Healthcare. They have added true value to the service and, in turn, attracted others who wanted to share in that vision. Our mixed culture of professionals includes those who have experience of working with people on the Autistic Spectrum alongside those with experience of specialist secure services. The result has been, that following a period of in-service Autism training and team building, supported and delivered by the National Autistic Society and our own clinicians, we have a workforce more attune to the needs of this specialist client group.”
Three months after opening, the need for this bespoke service has been confirmed with a high number of referrals already being taken.