Firsthand Lothian - social support group
This group is for parents and carers, particularly those with children with additional support needs and autism spectrum disorder. The group provides online monthly meetings to reduce social isolation. They offer support to share knowledge, experience, ideas and strategies and include guest speakers and visits to relevant organisations. For more information contact
0131 523 1322 and leave a message.
Firsthand Lothian - time 4 mum
This is for mums living in Edinburgh, who are isolated. They will receive support and encouragement to explore and attend opportunities and activities to help boost mental and physical health. Support with a worker will initially be offered for up to three hours per week for a maximum of 12 weeks. Childcare needs to be already in place.
To make an application visit the Firsthand website. For more information contact
0131 523 1322 and leave a message
Firsthand Lothian - wellbeing sessions
These sessions are for parents of children with Additional Support Needs and will include activities such as painting, jewellery making, making aromatherapy creams and bath salts, sewing and other relaxation exercises. For more information or to attend email
jan.holden@firsthand-lothian.org.uk
07340 162 277
Kindred
This service offers support for parents and carers of children with complex needs. Assistance is available to support with benefits, grant funding for aids and equipment, information and support on statutory care and support being discharged from the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People.
For more information visit the Kindred website or contact
enquiries@kindred-scotland.org
08000 315 793
The Action Group - parents carewell advice service
This service provides holistic advice and support for all parent carers who have a child with a disability, developmental delay or long-term health condition and reside in Edinburgh. For information and advice contact
careradvice@actiongroup.org.uk
0131 285 5207
Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm and ask for a member of the carer advice team
VOCAL support for carers
Telephone support is available for carers, including parents where the caring role of their child requires additional time. Carers can access information on support, benefits and counselling. For more information contact
0131 622 6666
For free courses and events for carers visit the VOCAL Support website.