Good Connections Events
Good Connections
An accessible information service to enable Autistic adults across Dumfries and Galloway
Good Connections links autistic adults into services, activities and opportunities for employment in Dumfries and Galloway.
Anyone who has a diagnosis of autism, or identifies as autistic, or provides informal care, is welcome to join us at our regular events.
We have a description of the events below, and a list of forthcoming events here.
Good Connections Events: At The Usual Place in Dumfries
Call in to talk to our staff, some of whom have lived experience of autism. Have a cuppa and find out about what is available in the region.
Meet a small, selected groups of organisations who are there to chat, connect, listen and share the relevant services and support they can provide to autistic adults, their families or carers.
Good Connections Events: Pop Ups Around the Region
As above. Good Connections Events taking place across Dumfries and Galloway in local Fire Stations.
Good Connections: One-To-Ones
In addition to the monthly drop-in events, The Usual Place has staff available to meet with autistic adults and/or their families in the café during normal opening times, to help make connections on a one-to-one basis. It is best to get in touch first to make sure someone is available.
- Contact Joanna on: 07599 104 975, or email joanna@theusualplace.org
- Contact Alison on: 07935 061 431, or email alison@theusualplace.org
Good Connections: On the Move Walks
Good Connections Walks are are an informal way of connecting into the local community.
A leisurely walk is usually accompanied by a visit or talk. Visits so far have included a trip to see roosting Peregrine Falcons, a tour of St Michael’s Church and Robert Burns Mausoleum, the Old Brig’ Museum and the Centre for Practiced Arts for an exhibition on Old Dumfries.
Come and visit local places with a friendly, welcoming group of people.
No pressure to socialise, you can just enjoy the walk. Feel free to bring any support required. You don’t need to let us know you are coming, just turn up on the day.
Dates and Times
We have daytime and early evening sessions, as well as pop up events across the region. Please see the times below:
Good Connections: At The Usual Place
The Usual Place, Academy Street, Dumfries, DG1 1BZ
Thursday 28th November October 2024, 10am – 2pm
Stalls on the day include:
Change Mental Health run resource centres in Dumfries, Annan, Castle Douglas, Newton Stewart and Stranraer. They provide a safe, comfortable and non-judgmental space where people can socialise and complete skills to improve their confidence and wellbeing while taking part in various activities.
Volunteering Matters support people aged 16-30 to develop the confidence and skills to move into employment, training or education.
They tailor support through a personalised plan including a 1:1 session with a mentor or member of their team, helping reduce or remove barriers preventing people from reaching their goals. They provide practical support such as building C.V.’s, interview techniques or job searching, provide Work Ready Support – from 12-week volunteer work placements through to help finding work or even advice on starting a business.
AccessArt is a participatory arts & crafts project that has been working throughout the region for the past 15 years.
By providing person centred workshops they adapt to each individuals unique needs and wants, tailoring activities to fit with interests.
Department of Work and Pensions (DWP)
The Department for Work and Pensions can provide you with information on improving your financial security, support your employment journey, give information on carer and disability benefits, and a vast array of other services and information.
Good Connections: On the Move
Meet at Easterbrook Bistro, Crichton, Dumfries
Wednesday 11th December 2024: 10am – 12.30pm
Join us for a walk around the Crichton grounds and buildings and find out a bit about the fascinating history of the site. This will be followed by an optional hot drink.
How much time we spend outside will be weather dependent, but we will need to walk between the buildings so please dress appropriately for the weather.
We will be meeting at Easterbrook Bistro, which is around the right hand side of Easterbrook Hall. There is a map on their website here.
There is a bus timetable to get from Dumfries town centre to the Crichton here.
There is more information about the walks here.
Coming Soon…
Good Connections: Pop up Event in the Community
In Partnership with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
Date in January 2025 tbc
Contact us
Anyone who would like to find out more about Good Connections for Autistic Adults should come along to one of the events, pop into The Usual Place or:
- Contact Joanna on: 07599 104 975, or email joanna@theusualplace.org
- Contact Alison on: 07935 061 431, or email alison@theusualplace.org
This Project has been funded by the Scottish Government through Inspiring Scotland