News & events 66 Dudley Street are NAS accredited!
Did you know our specialist autism service 66 Dudley Street in West Bromwich, are accredited by the National Autistic Society (NAS)?
Being accredited demonstrates that you have expert knowledge around autism, and offer high-quality specialist support.
Our team’s continuous hard work and dedication plays a huge role in improving the lives of the people we support, enabling them to live as independently as possible.
Want to know more about their accreditation? We caught up with Heidi Senft, Service Manager at 66 Dudley Street, to discover how they secured this achievement and what it means for both the team and the people we support.
How does it feel to be NAS accredited?
H: The whole team were ecstatic when we found out we’d been accredited. We couldn’t control our emotions. This achievement is something every one of us can be proud of, and it really demonstrates our specialist autism knowledge.
The people we support are central to everything we do, and being recognised for the care and support we provide them is a special moment for everyone.
What was key in achieving your NAS accreditation?
H: The team’s collaboration and communication were key to us achieving this accreditation. Every member of the team is there for each other and you never feel like you can’t turn to someone for support.
Leading up to the assessment, everyone had to be on the same page and communicate clearly to ensure everything ran smoothly.
Each person we support has a dedicated, bespoke care plan tailored to them. No person is the same, so it is extremely important that each team member adapts to the different needs of each individual.
By doing this effectively, we can tailor our support, providing the people we support an environment to thrive in!
How were you assessed by the NAS?
H: To begin with we had to submit numerous case studies and evidence to the NAS, showcasing how we were providing person-centred care.
The assessment was all about promoting the independent skills the people we support had developed. It was also a learning process for our team, understanding what autism is to each individual, their needs, and promoting their successes.
When it came to assessment day, we treated it like any other day, and were ready to show the NAS assessor the amazing progress each individual at 66 Dudley Street has made.
The NAS assessor visited the service and spent time with our team and the people we support. They then observed us as we took part in activities with each individual. During this time, they made their assessments and compared these to the evidence we had submitted.
Their findings were then sent to a panel, alongside our evidence, for review. It was an anxious wait before we found out the results, but it was also a special moment to showcase the great achievements each individual had accomplished. One person for example, would regularly ask his support team to turn his light on for him, so we got him a touch lamp, and over time he developed an understanding of how to use it, and is now able to operate it himself.
How did you prepare the people we support for the assessment?
H: We ensured that each individual was fully involved and aware of what was happening during the assessment. We sat down with each person and communicated to them in their preferred method.
We explained that a person from the NAS would be visiting us to see all our good work. We also ensured them that their regular routines wouldn’t be changing, and the day would be treated like any other day.
For anyone that wasn’t comfortable with the assessor being near them, we arranged for that person to be assessed from a distance, ensuring they remained comfortable and happy.
The assessment experience was so special to each of them, they recognise it as a key achievement, and it empowers them for the future.
What tips would you give to other services going for an NAS accreditation?
H: Communication is key, whether that’s with your team or the people we support. Always ensure everyone is on the same page and get to know each individual so you’re aware of what makes them tick.
Also, just treat the assessment day like any other day. The assessor is looking to see your expert knowledge around autism, and how that transfers over to the care you provide. Let the people you support showcase their independent skills and how they are achieving their goals.
What future goals do you have?
H: Our main goal is to go for the Advanced NAS accreditation in the future!
Achieving this accreditation was such a special moment for everyone, especially the people we support. It’s a key achievement for them, developing their independence and showing the power of person-centred care. It empowers them for the future, and we have no doubts that their progression will grow.
We will continue delivering outstanding care, while developing our knowledge around autism. We’re always looking at ways to improve and we’re all motivated to continue this incredible journey with the people we support.
Advanced status is only a matter of time – watch this space!
Find out more!
To learn more about our specialist autism support, and how we can support you, a loved one or a client, complete our quick and easy online form and a member of our friendly team will be in touch!
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