Co-Design and Connect is a new Baptist Care SA program that makes youth activities and programs more welcoming and accessible to people with autism.
Autism is a developmental disorder characterised by difficulties with social interactions, communication, and/or restricted or repetitive behaviours. It is often associated with sensory processing sensitivities/challenges.
As young people with autism often find noises and crowds quite stressful, they can struggle to take part in children and youth ministry activities and not want to go to church. This can result in both the young person and their families feeling isolated.
Co-Design and Connect helps churches extend opportunities for young people with autism to become involved in the community and form friendships. It links church leaders with people with lived experience of disability and professional development educators to co-design programs and resources that support young people to participate in artistic, cultural, sports and recreational activities. This can be done through workshops and tailored one-to-one sessions.
Educators can also provide advice and guidance on inclusion for people with psychosocial, intellectual and/or physical disabilities.
If you would like to learn more about CoDesign and Connect, please contact Jarrod Flack by phoning 0412 559 294 or emailing jflack@baptistcaresa.org.au.
