The National Autistic Society Moray, Nairn and Strathspey branch is inviting everyone to East Grange Loft
A children’s group is launching its local branch and inviting the wider community to a fun open day at a popular activity centre.
The National Autistic Society (NAS) Nairn Children’s Group has grown to become the Moray, Nairn and Strathspey branch based at St Leonard’s Church Hall, Forres, and is hosting its first fundraiser at The Loft, Kinloss from 11am to 4pm on Saturday, February 8.
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Branch chairwoman, Susannah Coulson, confirmed the event - featuring sales and information stalls, food and drink, as well as activities including virtual reality, crafts and a bouncy castle - will be suitable for everyone, especially neurodiverse children and teenagers.
She said: “The Loft has excellent low mobility access. The event is designed to be autism-friendly but everyone is welcome.”
There will also be a face painter, sand art, nature-based activities and a scavenger hunt. Products for sale will include metalwork, knits, woodwork and many more handmade items by local crafters. And anyone looking to relax can do so in a mobile sensory room!
“The fun day will help us make the wider community aware that our branch is opening,” said volunteer Sarah Coulson, “as well as raise funds to facilitate it and organise more special activities.”
The NAS local group offers a free drop-in for neurodiverse children and teenagers on one Saturday per month. Attendees must be accompanied by a parent/guardian but neurotypical siblings and friends are also welcome.
Having outgrown its original home at Nairn Community Centre, the group is already attracting families to St Leonard’s Church Hall from Elgin, Lossie, Inverness and Grantown.
”We will officially become a branch on February 1,” explained Susannah. “Although part of a national charity, each branch is responsible for funding its own activities, outings, events etc.
“In November, we went to Infinity Trampoline Park in Inverness. The trip was so successful, we hope to arrange more in the future.”
As a branch, we can offer more to even more attendees. If funding and volunteer numbers allow, we will have more drop-in sessions in more areas.
“We also want to fill gaps, for example, 'Lucy's Lights' is a great provision for autistic females aged 16 plus but there isn't an equivalent group for autistic men.
“It's important to work with other charities and organisations so that collectively we can give the best support to our community.”
As well as charity Out There’s mobile sensory room, there will be representation from Mikeysline, Lucy's Lights, Unbroken Kids, ICON Moray Wellbeing Hub, Moray Riding for the Disabled, Inspire Tutoring CFE, Respite Revive and The Paddock.
“Families will be able to learn more about the local support charities while having a fun day out,” finished Susannah, “in the knowledge that quiet spaces and expertise are on-hand.
“The fun day is on the weekend before Valentine’s Day so we hope people will show us some love and support. It will be a chance to buy Valentine’s gifts or win a special treat too!”
Visit https://www.facebook.com/NASNairn or email nairnchildren.group@nas.org.uk for more information.