• Communication – This workshop gives carers the opportunity to consider the main communication issues facing adults with Asperger Syndrome/High Functioning Autism. There is also the opportunity to share some of the difficulties carers have experienced as well as any tips, tools or approaches they have personally found to be effective.

• Autism & Mental Health – This workshop provides an overview of mental health issues commonly experienced by individuals on the autism spectrum. There is a particular focus on anxiety and depression. The session will give carers the opportunity to talk about their own experiences and share ideas and knowledge about possible strategies and services.

• Understanding Autism – This workshop is geared towards those whose family member has had a recent diagnosis of autism or anyone else who feels it may be beneficial. It was developed in partnership with the Tailor Ed Foundation and the workshop includes a brief history of autism, terminology, and how autism affects those on the spectrum covering areas such as motivation, communication, information and sensory processing. The workshop also provides the opportunity to share knowledge and experiences with other carers.

• Autism & Employment – This workshop gives carers the opportunity to consider the main issues facing individuals with autism spectrum conditions in finding and sustaining employment opportunities. Also discussed are the main employment support services available to individuals with autism in Edinburgh and the Lothians.

• Independent Living Skills – This workshop explores what independent living means for you and your family member and looks at some of the common difficulties adults with autism face with regard to independent living skills. It will also consider the barriers faced by your family member and begin to create an action plan on how to support them to address some of these barriers.

• Self-Harm – Facilitated by a Clinical Nurse who specialises in Self-Harm at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital, this workshop is on the theme of Self-Harm. This workshop is suitable for carers of over-16s with autism spectrum conditions who are concerned about their family member's self-harming behaviour. The workshop also allows the opportunity to consider what constitutes 'self-harm' and to look at the reasons behind it and strategies for supporting someone who exhibits such behaviour.

If you would like to book a place on one of our Training Workshops, please contact Rachel on 0131 475 2416 or at rachel.pickett@pasda.org.uk.