Aspens offers services for children and young people with a range of disabilities, those on the autism spectrum, and/or those with complex needs aged 8-25 (18-25 with EHCP) across West Sussex. Our services are aimed at those who may be in or out of education, facing social isolation or unable to access group-based activities. Our Children's Services support children and young people to develop skills required to become independent and confident young people, through a range of activities at outreach centres, in the community and in their own homes.

Application form

Groups for children and young people

We run support groups for young people across venues in both the south and north of West Sussex. Our groups are available to those who are 8 years and above and focus on empowering social and communication skills, building confidence, independence and self-esteem, making new friends and having fun, all in a relaxed and informal setting. Our groups are friendly, safe places where all our young people can spend time together and enjoy each other’s company.

View our current Groups timetable here. 

1:1 Buddy Scheme Support

Support to enable and encourage young people to access activities in the community and empower them to become more independent whilst taking part in things they enjoy.

Youth Engagement Support

A combined support service that offers a bridge between our 1:1 Buddy Scheme Support and our Specialist Support Service. Youth engagement support empowers young people at risk of becoming disengaged from education and/or community-based activities by embedding strategies to support to develop the skills required to gain both increased independence and confidence. 

Sibling Support

A monthly group for siblings, structured to provide a fun environment, where individuals can relieve feelings of isolation, be empowered to model coping strategies, have their feelings acknowledged and enhance their knowledge. Available to those aged between 8-16 years old who have a sibling with autism spectrum condition, learning difficulties and/or complex needs.

Family Fun Days

Fun days for the whole family. Details, dates and costings will be emailed to those on our mailing list and advertised via our social media.

Cost of West Sussex services

Groups	Cost upon application Subsidised cost to parents through West Sussex Short Breaks
Siblings groups	£10 per session
1:1 Buddy Scheme	£18.02 per hour  plus mileage at 45p per mile and expenses
Youth Engagement Support	£50 per hour  plus mileage and expenses Limited Youth Engagement packages available through West Sussex Short Breaks for young people aged 11-18 at a subsidised cost to parents, please enquire upon application
Family Fun Days	Cost to be advised

Contact

For more information, please contact our West Sussex Children and Young People’s Services on 01243 214120 or email [email protected]

Please note that following an application for support to the West Sussex Children and Young People’s Service, an acknowledgement letter will be sent out to the parent/carer.

The child/young person’s name will then be added to our waiting list. Waiting list times vary and are dependent upon support worker /group space availability.