What is SWAPP?
SWAPP is a partnership programme between parents and their child's setting or school that aims to build an understanding of autism and the challenges and delights it can present.
The programme aims to empower families and staff who are closely involved in supporting a child or young person on the autistic spectrum.
Sessions cover all aspects of autism including communication, sensory issues and behaviour.
When are SWAPP courses running?
We deliver SWAPP courses throughout the academic year. Once you have completed an application form (see information at the bottom of this sheet) you will be contacted to invite you to an online course. Families are usually allocated to courses according to when they applied - i.e. families who applied earlier are offered a course first.
Who is SWAPP for?
SWAPP is for families of children and young people with autism from preschool age to school year 13. Families must be Wiltshire residents i.e. live in areas governed by Wiltshire Local Authority. A member of staff from the child or young person's setting/school is also encouraged to attend to develop a consistent approach around the child or young person. Children and young people themselves do not attend sessions.
SWAPP 1 is for families of children in early year's settings and reception classes and uses a programme designed by professionals who are experienced with supporting children in this age group.
SWAPP 2/3 targets families who have children in primary school. The course was designed by professionals in the Local Authority with extensive autism experience and aims to give an understanding of the behaviours seen in autism, why they occur and some basic strategies. Families will be offered a course according to the age and needs of their child and the availability of courses.
SWAPP 4 is aimed at families of older pupils, in school years 7 -13, looking at how puberty impacts upon autism and covering communication, behaviour, independence, sex and sexuality and mental health and wellbeing. This course has been designed by professionals in the Local Authority with extensive autism experience with older young people. Usually, we expect families who have attended a SWAPP 2-3 course to wait for 2 years before applying for a SWAPP 4 course in order to prioritise families who have had no recent autism training.
Does my child have to have a diagnosis of autism?
Yes, SWAPP is only for families with children on the autistic spectrum. In accordance with NICE (The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence) guidelines, the child or young person must have a formal written diagnosis before a family can attend the programme.
Is the course relevant for all families?
SWAPP courses are most relevant for families whose children attend mainstream schools but is also relevant for more able children in specialist schools. This is because many of the strategies require the child to have a good understanding of verbal communication and primarily use verbal language to communicate. Families whose children have more significant learning disabilities in addition to autism are welcome to apply. However, they may find some of the course content is not applicable.
How long does the programme last?
Sessions are group sessions and usually run one session per week for consecutive weeks, except over school holidays.
SWAPP 1 runs over 6 weeks.
SWAPP 2/3 runs over 4 weeks.
SWAPP 4 runs over 6 weeks.
Each group session lasts for approximately 2 hours. Families and school staff will normally be expected to attend all sessions. Sessions are held in the morning, usually from 9.30am to 11.30am and tutors are usually available to answer any individual queries after the sessions.
Where does SWAPP take place?
SWAPP is currently being delivered online via Microsoft TEAMS. You will be sent a link for each week which you simply need to click on to join the session.
Who delivers the sessions?
SWAPP 2/3 and SWAPP 4 sessions are run by two professionals: Specialist Advisory Teachers from SSENS (Specialist Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Service), and other professionals such as Educational Psychologists or Speech and Language Therapists. SWAPP 1 courses are led by a Speech and Language Therapist and a SEND Lead Worker. All professionals have training and experience in supporting children and young people with autism.
Who attends the sessions?
Each family is offered two places for family members and a third place is offered for a staff member at the child or young person's setting or school. There are usually about 8 -10 families on each course.
The family members attending may be parents, carers, grandparents, other relatives or, occasionally others who are closely involved in supporting the child/young person. Grown-up siblings are welcome. School staff may include key workers, teaching assistants or teachers; they should be someone who has a key role in supporting the child or young person in their setting or school.
We occasionally have a professional colleague observing a course as part of their professional development.
What happens in a SWAPP session?
Each session explores an area of autism such as communication or behaviour. It involves information, ideas and discussions. You will meet other families and be able to share experiences.
SWAPP sessions are intended to be informal, interesting, interactive and enjoyable. People can opt out of anything they are not comfortable with - no one will be 'put on the spot' or asked to contribute verbally if they do not wish to. There is also an option to type comments or questions in the chat box during sessions. Most participants choose to have their camera on but this can be off if preferred.
What do I need to bring?
You will be provided with copies of the presentations and any relevant handouts. You may want to have a pen and paper at hand to make notes
What does it cost?
SWAPP is free as it is funded directly by Wiltshire Council.
What if I have additional needs?
SWAPP facilitators are skilled at supporting all participants to get the most out of the programme. If you have additional needs - for example, if you find it difficult to read, or to speak English; if you yourself are on the autistic spectrum or if you have learning difficulties let us know and we will be able to support you. Alternatively, you may choose to bring someone with you to help, for example an interpreter.
How do I get a place?
Families who would like a place should contact Wiltshire Council on 01225 718095or email TSLS.OperationalOffice@wiltshire.gov.uk for an application form.
Details of forthcoming courses and an online application form are available on the Wiltshire Council website https://localoffer.wiltshire.gov.uk/swapp
