Resource hub
Welcome to the Resource Hub at DASH Swindon. This space brings together helpful information, guides, and tools about autism, accessibility, and support. You can explore resources at your own pace and find information that may help you, your family, or your organisation.
Finding the Right Support
The Resource Hub from DASH Swindon shares links to other organisations
While we are not responsible for the services they provide, we aim to highlight options that reflect our values and may complement our work. We review resources regularly, but services can change. If something looks out of date, or you know a helpful resource, please let us know.
NHS passport
A NHS Health Passport (often called a “hospital passport” or “health passport”) is a personal document that helps healthcare staff understand a patient’s needs quickly, especially if the person may have difficulty communication.
The Samaritans
Samaritans are available to speak to 24/7 every day of the year. You can phone them free on 116123 or email Jo@Samaritans.org
How to get a diagnosis
You will need to be referred by your GP (doctor) to be formally diagnosed with autism or another neurodiversity.
Health coaching
Health Coaches are there to listen and give tips on improving your health and wellbeing. They’ll help you set goals, track your progress, point you to helpful activities, and even show you apps to make your health journey easier.
Inclusive activities
Want to keep fit and be healthy, here is a range of inclusive activities and even some you can do at home !
Healthy eating
The Eatwell Guide shows how much of each type of food you should eat to keep your diet healthy and balanced.
Health anxiety
Autistic people can sometimes worry more about their health.Health anxiety means worrying a lot about being sick or about your health, even when doctors say you are okay. It can make you check your body a lot, look up symptoms, or feel stressed about normal changes.
Healthy eating and cooking
Award in food safety – Level 1
This short course is for people who want understand how to handle food safely and hygienically and gain a level 1 qualification in food safety.
How to apply for PIP (Personal Independence Payment)
Here’s how to apply for PIP. Don’t forget DASH can help you through the process if you would like us to
how to apply for Universal credit
Universal Credit is a payment from the government to help with living costs if you’re on a low income, unemployed, or can’t work. It can help with things like rent, bills, and everyday expenses.
Benefits calculator
You can use an independent, free and anonymous benefits calculator to check what you could be entitled to.
Appealing a DWP claim if you get turned down
It’s common for people to need to appeal a benefits decision, and we are here to help you every step of the way.
What else might I be entitled to?
Autism Financial Entitlements & Swindon Support: What You Can Access
MIND
Mind is a UK charity that supports people with mental health needs, including autistic people.
Youth counselling
On Trak is a free counselling service for young people living in Swindon who are experiencing mental health challenges that may benefit from talk-based therapies.
Swindon Samaritans
Samaritans are there to listen and support you when you need someone to talk to.
The Victoria centre
Talking therapies help you feel better by talking to someone who listens and helps you understand your feelings.
How to access mental health
Here you can find out how to access mental health services through the NHS
Social skills
Social situations can feel confusing or overwhelming. Here is a simple step-by-step guide to help.
Phoenix enterprise
At Phoenix Enterprises, they take a personal, targeted and holistic approach to their support. Where appropriate, they help the people source and retain paid work. Through their work experience with , they gain employability skills.
national autistic society
This page explores different routes to gain work experience, plus government and other support to help you find or prepare for work.
Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis
If you need help with the cost of living, Martin Lewis’s website has useful tips
Budgeting
A simple step-by-step guide to help you manage your money with confidence.
Haven’t found the support you are looking for?
If you haven’t found the information you’re looking for, the team at DASH Swindon is here to help. Use the Contact Us link to get in touch. We will do our best to answer your questions or help you find the right information or support.
Lived experience at the heart of what we do
At DASH Swindon, lived experience shapes everything we do. Many people involved in our work have personal experience of autism, which helps us better understand real challenges and barriers. This insight guides how we design our services, support our community, and work with others to create a more accessible and inclusive society for everyone.
“I'm much more knowledgeable about my autism"
“I did the 3 week program with DASH , If I am honest I did not know what to expect and wasn’t expecting to much. However I really enjoyed it and found it helpful.
I am now much more knowledgeable about my autism , I am volunteering in a cafe and I have joined one of the social groups where I hope to find friendships ”
“Who knew? The difference between shutdowns & meltdowns”
“I have recently gone through the After Diagnosis Programme. I learnt the difference between shutdowns and meltdowns, I learnt that not everyone ‘is a little bit autistic’ that was so important to me and validated my diagnosis which I had to wait 3 years for. The course has made me more confident at work and I can talk to people at work now without massive anxiety. I have also used the techniques I learned at my card club and I now enjoy it much more and can stay for the whole session as I take sensory breaks and I know that ok now !”
What else can DASH help you with?
Test
Approx 30 words Do you want to know more about our services or maybe how you can support us? Fill in the form and a member of the team will get back to you.