IMPACT DEVELOPMENT TRUST: ASD CONNEX RESPITE CARE CENTRE

ASD CONNEX is a project under Impact Development Trust. We are a non profit organisation which started in 2014. We provide support for parents and families with children with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder). Our plan is to extend this service by providing a Respite Care Centre based in New Plymouth.

The need for a Respite Care Centre in Taranaki was realized by personal experiences and feedback from families associated with ASD CONNEX.

Caring for a child or children with ASD is challenging. Daily life is highly stressful and often isolating. Feedback from other parents indicate that there are often times of utter despair and desperation at the lack of support - specifically in regard to needing a regular break from the demands of caring for a child with special needs.

Due to these challenging behaviors, parents and caregivers energy levels are zapped quickly and they are often running on empty. It’s common for families to get highly stressed as they deal with their family’s needs, juggle medical and therapy appointments as well as manage work and other responsibilities.

Several sources state the divorce rate for parents with ASD children is as high as 80%.

Parents often sacrifice their own health and well-being to meet the care-giving needs of their children. Research has demonstrated that respite services can make a significant positive difference in the lives of families, allowing them to take a break and increase their social and emotional well-being. It is also shown to have a positive impact on family relations.

A recent example of why parents need respite care is highlighted by an article in Taranaki Daily News dated 14 May 2017. A local mother is upset her autistic son aged 14, can't get the help he needs. She states "I guess this is what happens when you don't have help." Unfortunately, there are many other stories similar to this in New Zealand.

Our vision is to build a modern and inviting respite centre, where children with ASD and their families can refuel their energy and spirit levels by creating a fun, caring and safe environment specifically designed for their challenging behaviours and needs.

This will enable parents and their families to relax, do something for themselves, be encouraged and come out of isolation.

We will initially provide this service on a Sunday from 9.30-12pm and then the goal is to provide care during the week.

With a Charitable Trust Founded, site and plans for three specialized rooms confirmed, as well as a great team of experienced volunteers ready to go, all we need now is the funding to get this vision off the ground.

This is the ASD Connex Vision and with your help, we can make it a reality.