Help our participants to grow and thrive.
Aspect Adult Community Services (ACS) centre in Heatherton has been working with Autistic participants since 2001. Over that time, Aspect has provided services and supports to individuals on the autism spectrum that have complex support needs. This includes supporting people to develop independent living skills, communication and expressive skills, health and wellbeing and social and recreational skills. These supports all assist individuals to live fulfilling lives through person-centred solutions and supports.
Aspect wishes to create a sensory walking and bike track that circles the outside rear of the property. The track will allow for numerous quiet, calm and sensory spaces for individuals to access. These areas will cater for:
1) Autism friendly landscaped gardens with plants and shrubs, including natives
2) Built in seating areas, hammocks and swings
3) Fish pond
4) Water features that allow for water play
Gardens provide Autistic individuals with a highly sensory activity offering different colours, smells, sounds and textures, yet being in nature has the act of gardening and being in nature is shown to have a calming effect. The water feature will provide an added sensory experience, and the track is a way to encourage physical fitness and mental wellbeing.
“The world can be overwhelming, but there are spaces and communities where Autistic people can thrive, grow and make a real difference. When we nurture both the environment and each other, we can create something truly beautiful.”
- Tom Broadley, Aspect Autism Liaison Officer
Help us reach our goal.
Your support would be greatly appreciated.
Learn more about how gardens and nature are supporting Autistic participants. Watch ABC Gardening Australia on iView from 6 December.
