The Square Peg (North East) CIC was set up in November 2016 to change the way children and adults with autism and/or intellectual disabilities are supported. We believe in developing skills and independence of people and the starting point is when people are very young. We currently run two projects.

Our children's project is focused on nurturing and developing  the skills and abilities  of  children  aged  4  years  and  over. Improving confidence, self-esteem and reducing stress and anxiety are important challenges to improve the lives of children with autism and/or learning disabilities. Our project is dedicated and focused on improving community opportunities for children, and because of this we have our very own autism children's club "little pegs". Our club means children can participate in a variety of activities where we have a detailed understanding of stress and anxiety these children often have. Our club works to reduce the stress and anxieties  in children with autism and /or learning disabilities experience by developing holistic approaches.

Our adult programme is more focused on developing employment skills, social communication, money, travel and sex and relationships.

We have recently acquired a vintage café with a large children's play area. However the area needs significantly improved to become more autism friendly. We want to develop a sensory facility where not only children can come and play but also have the opportunities to become part of the community inclusively and have additional needs met. The acquisition also requires a skills area so we can teach younger adults with autism independent living skills to support in their development so everyday challenges can be overcome.

The money we raise will go to investing in our acquisition to make it not only unique but an inspirational movement to improving how children and young people can be better and more inclusively supported.