Understanding circles of support

Circles of support are invaluable in enhancing the lives of individuals with autism.

This support network extends beyond immediate family to include friends, community members, and professionals, all united in their commitment to support a child’s aspirations and daily needs.

Understanding circles of support

A Circle of Support is a group of people who come together to help someone with autism, protecting their interests and supporting their lifestyle choices. Unlike traditional support systems that may rely heavily on family and governmental aid, these circles actively involve a broader community perspective, which enriches the support provided.

Your circle of support can include anyone from your child’s life who is positive, supportive, and committed. These could be friends, teachers, neighbours, or local business owners who interact regularly with your child. The key is their willingness to participate actively in creating an inclusive environment for the person at the centre of the circle.

The role of the circle

Members of a Circle of Support might meet regularly to discuss and plan how best to assist with various aspects of your child’s life, such as education, social activities, medical needs, or career aspirations. Their proactive role involves planning for the future and addressing immediate needs.

Benefits of a supportive circle

• ‍Enhanced social interactions: Regular interaction with a diverse group of supportive individuals helps reduce feelings of isolation for people with autism and promotes a sense of community belonging.‍
• Increased independence: With support, individuals with autism can achieve greater levels of independence. The circle helps identify and facilitate opportunities for growth in various areas of life.‍
• Security and continuity: Circles of support provide a sense of security. Members often commit to long-term support, ensuring that the individual’s needs are met consistently, even as circumstances change.‍
• Empowerment and advocacy: Having a support network empowers individuals with autism to make decisions about their lives and ensures that they have advocates working on their behalf.

Creating a circle of support

Creating a Circle of Support involves identifying potential members, organising initial meetings, and establishing clear goals and expectations. The circle should operate with respect, inclusivity, and genuine care for your child’s wellbeing.

Challenges and considerations

While setting up a Circle of Support, challenges such as coordinating schedules, ensuring continuous involvement, and managing differing opinions can arise. Clear communication and regular reviews of the circle’s effectiveness are crucial for addressing these challenges.

Types of support groups in Australia

Peer and community support groups

Peer and community support groups provide a network where individuals and families can share experiences, gain insights, and access resources in a supportive environment. These groups are often tailored to different needs, including those specific to autism, and can vary widely in their offerings, from social meetups and educational workshops to playgroups for children.

National and local community-based groups

Across Australia, various community-based groups aim to support families by providing peer support. These groups serve as a local information hub, offering advice on everything from preschool and school options to professional services for autistic individuals.

• ‍MyTime groups: MyTime Groups are nationally run playgroups for children with disabilities or developmental disorders and their carers. These groups welcome carers of children up to 18 years old, providing a space to connect with others in similar situations, share their experiences, and access support.‍
• Peer Connect: The Peer Connect platform is a comprehensive resource and listing hub for peer support networks. It caters to all disabilities, offering guidance on finding local networks, sharing success stories of peer connections, and providing resources to help start new peer support networks.

Online peer support options

With the growth of digital platforms, online peer support groups have become increasingly accessible. These groups vary in size and management, with some providing a well-moderated, safe environment while others might need more moderation, leading to less constructive interactions. Users must navigate these spaces carefully to find a group that best suits their needs.

Facebook and online groups

• ASD Matters and Autism Parents Australia: These are two prominent Australian Facebook groups offering a platform for families to share experiences and support each other.
• Autism Dads Australia: This group provides a space specifically for fathers of autistic children to discuss their experiences, ask questions, and receive support from other dads.
• ICAN Network: This Melbourne-based organisation provides autistic-led mentoring, training, and consultancy. It offers online group mentoring programs for young people aged 9 – 20 and other programs.

The role of a peer support worker

Peer support workers play an integral role within the support network, offering empathy, understanding, and practical advice based on their experiences with autism. Peer support workers often facilitate discussions, coordinate activities, and act as a bridge between community members and professional services, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the support group.

Circles of Support are crucial in creating an inclusive, supportive, and empowering environment for autistic children. By extending the support system beyond family members to include a more comprehensive community network, these circles ensure that individuals with autism are supported in meeting their current needs and realising their full potential. This approach benefits the individual and enriches the community as a whole.