Blog

Read more about the diverse ecosystems of support in the health and social care sector through our blog posts. To provide deeper insight, we have established a dedicated platform where our multidisciplinary team of specialists share their first-hand experiences working with the people they support. As part of this initiative, the ‘In the Heart of Care’ blog series serves as a primary resource, offering a closer look at their proactive approach and personalised tools designed to encourage people’s journeys forward. 

Asperger’s vs Autism: What is The Difference?

Many people on the autism spectrum still relate their experiences to the characterisation of Asperger syndrome. Understanding the difference between

Signs of Asperger’s Syndrome in Children

In 2013, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) integrated Asperger's syndrome, falling under the broader spectre of
Close up young black american wife embracing partner.

Positive Behaviour Support

Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is an evidence-based approach combining behavioural science and person-centred approaches. The goal of this approach is

Unpacking the Success of The Best Practice Leadership Summit

International Women’s Day

Women's History Month is the perfect time to honour women's contributions to history, society, innovations, and technology. Every year on

Common Down Syndrome Associated Conditions

Most health issues among people with Down Syndrome also occur among the wider population. However, some health conditions are more

The Impact of Physical Disabilities on Mental Health and Well-Being

Physical disability and mental health challenges often go together due to a complex set of factors. Social discrimination and lack

Asperger’s Syndrome

Asperger's syndrome affects a person's ability to socialize and communicate effectively. It is considered to be on the milder end

Global Developmental Delay

Global developmental delay is a term used when children show a delay in reaching major developmental milestones typical for peers

What Are Learning Difficulties

A learning difficulty is a developmental difference that affects the brain’s way of processing information. For individuals with learning difficulties,

Epilepsy: Symptoms, Causes and Support

Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder that alters the brain's electrical activity. Due to this abnormal brain activity, individuals with

Down Syndrome: Screening & Diagnosis

Down syndrome screening and diagnosis is offered to women in early pregnancy to determine the chances of having a baby

Trauma-Informed Practice: The Stories We Write About People and How They Shape Their Recovery

George has built an impressive career as a specialist clinical practitioner, practice lead and trainer, focusing on managing and reducing high-risk behaviours of concern -including self-injury, self-harm and aggression to others. Through collaborative efforts with the therapy team, services, and across the organisation, Georgina has developed her role at Catalyst, finding ways to promote best practices in reducing restrictions and positive approaches to risk-taking. She shares real-life examples of how reducing restrictive practices is recognised as essential for improving well-being and quality of life and as an evidence-based approach to reducing behaviour of concern....

Specialist’s Corner: How Multimedia Is Transforming Support for People with Learning Disabilities and Autism

At Leaf Complex Care, multimedia is being used in powerful, personalised ways to enhance the lives of people with learning disabilities and autism. We spoke to Ben Andrew, PBS Coach and specialist in multimedia advocacy, about how these creative tools are shaping the future of support....

Key Factors in Adequately Assessing and Evaluating Autistic People

With varied experiences across different spheres and career paths, Ophelia was introduced to the field of occupational therapy by another occupational therapist. With her intuitive nature and a deep desire to support others, she found opportunities to volunteer in various occupational therapy services, gaining insight into the field's vast scope. She realised that this was her true vocation, enabling her to build a career aligning with her skillset while supporting people when they need it most. Join us as we explore Ophelia’s role and approach to therapy, grounded in evidence and driven by compassion....

How Intensive Interaction Helps Build Connections

Jodee’s career beginnings were in teaching and education, but her path shifted toward care when her passion for speech and language therapy was sparked by her eldest son, who is autistic. Jodee, who also is also autistic, found that her mental health needs made her previous work challenging, as the support she required was often lacking. Joining Catalyst Care Group became the turning point she needed—a place where people are truly recognised and valued for who they are. In the opening article, Jodee shares valuable insights into reframing how we communicate with the neurodivergent people we support, explaining how she brings this approach to life....

The Holistic Model of Occupational Therapy

With varied experiences across different spheres and career paths, Ophelia was introduced to the field of occupational therapy by another occupational therapist. With her intuitive nature and a deep desire to support others, she found opportunities to volunteer in various occupational therapy services, gaining insight into the field's vast scope. She realised that this was her true vocation, enabling her to build a career aligning with her skillset while supporting people when they need it most. Join us as we explore Ophelia’s role and approach to therapy, grounded in evidence and driven by compassion....

Building Better Care: The Journey Towards Least-Restrictive Practices

George has built an impressive career as a specialist clinical practitioner, practice lead and trainer, focusing on managing and reducing high-risk behaviours of concern -including self-injury, self-harm and aggression to others. Through collaborative efforts with the therapy team, services, and across the organisation, Georgina has developed her role at Catalyst, finding ways to promote best practices in reducing restrictions and positive approaches to risk-taking. She shares real-life examples of how reducing restrictive practices is recognised as essential for improving well-being and quality of life and as an evidence-based approach to reducing behaviour of concern....

Getting the Right Support in Place: Communication Care Plans That Work

Jodee leads the Communication Care Planning training for all care coordinators within our organisation. The training is aimed primarily at care coordinators because many are responsible for developing people’s care plans and ensuring their implementation by the support workers. Care coordinators play an essential role in maintaining the smooth running of the services, acting as mediators between the people we support and their care team. Their role involves ensuring that everyone feels supported in their responsibilities for meeting the needs of the people in our care....

The Language of Difference: Understanding Autistic Communication Differences

Jodee’s career beginnings were in teaching and education, but her path shifted toward care when her passion for speech and language therapy was sparked by her eldest son, who is autistic. Jodee, who also is also autistic, found that her mental health needs made her previous work challenging, as the support she required was often lacking. Joining Catalyst Care Group became the turning point she needed—a place where people are truly recognised and valued for who they are. In the opening article, Jodee shares valuable insights into reframing how we communicate with the neurodivergent people we support, explaining how she brings this approach to life....

Call us if you know someone with complex care needs that are a risk to themselves or others or have noticed rapidly escalating behaviours.