Latest news
 New supported living homes officially open in Swaffham, creating opportunities for greater independenceMonday 7th September 2026A new supported living development has celebrated its official opening. Golden Court, is a brand-new supported living development providing 16 high-quality, accessible… |
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 Avenues Group Welcomes Love4LifeTuesday 1st September 2026We are delighted to announce that, from the 1st of September 2026, Love4Life has become part of Avenues Group. Love4Life… |
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 Avenues expands support in Essex with new supported living service in Saffron WaldenWednesday 12th August 2026Avenues are delighted to announce that it has been selected by Essex County Council to provide support for three adults… |
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 A message to our supporters about a security incident involving BeaconWednesday 5th August 2026We want to let you know about a security incident affecting Beacon, the platform used by Autism Hampshire and Avenues… |
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 New supported living development officially opens in NorwichThursday 18th June 2026A new supported living development for people with a learning disability, physical disability and autistic people has officially opened in… |
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 Response to the CQC report for East Hampshire DCAMonday 8th June 2026Following the recent Care Quality Commission assessment of East Hampshire DCA, the service has been rated Requires Improvement overall. |
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 A very special guest visits Avenues in MargateTuesday 12th May 2026One of Avenues services in Margate in Kent had a visit from a very important guest recently. Retired therapy donkey… |
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 Community Connections and Confidence Grow at Tesco FarehamWednesday 6th May 2026People supported by one of our services in Hampshire recently enjoyed a fantastic new community experience, thanks to a wonderful partnership with… |
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“A high standard of care” with “experienced and passionate staff”; CQC gives Avenues Margate service a glowing report.Tuesday 5th May 2026The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has awarded Avenues residential service Westbrook Avenue in Margate, Kent a ‘Good’ rating in all… |
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 The joy in supporting. Raz, John and the teamTuesday 21st April 2026When Razvan arrived at his supported living service in East London in 2017, according to Service Manager John Crowley he… |
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 Meet Michael: Running the London Marathon to challenge disadvantageThursday 16th April 2026For Michael Gross, running the London Marathon is about far more than completing 26.2 miles. It’s about pushing himself to… |
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 Meet Becky: Running the London Marathon for AvenuesWednesday 15th April 2026For Becky Steward, taking on the London Marathon is more than just a physical challenge — it’s a chance to make a real… |
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 Meet Dan: Turning miles into meaning for AvenuesTuesday 14th April 2026For Dan Gower-Smith, running isn’t just a hobby — it’s a passion, a community, and now, a powerful way to… |
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 Meet Richard: Running the London Marathon to support autistic people and their familiesMonday 13th April 2026For Richard Walker, taking part in the London Marathon is about more than completing 26.2 miles — it’s about raising awareness, supporting… |
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Response to CQC report for Glebe HouseFriday 6th March 2026Avenues London – Glebe House has received its latest inspection report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) following an inspection… |
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 Generosity of leadership in social care – a message from our CEOMonday 23rd February 2026In the not‑for‑profit social care sector, we often talk about compassion for the people we support — but far less… |
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Gender Pay Gap Data 2025Wednesday 11th February 2026Avenues is a not-for profit organisation which works with autistic people, people with learning disability, and multiple or complex needs…. |
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 From small charity to big family: Terry Rich looks at how Avenues has changed in his time as Chair of TrusteesThursday 5th February 2026Terry Rich has been Avenues Chair of Trustees for nearly a decade. He will leave the position later this year… |
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 Andrew’s team make his rugby dream come trueThursday 5th February 2026Andrew often told his support team that he was from New Zealand, but it was only when his aunt and… |
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A Christmas message from our CEOTuesday 23rd December 2025As 2025 draws to a close, Jo Land reflects on a year of achievement, teamwork and the everyday moments that… |
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Avenues Quality Checker Raz strengthens ties at Central officeWednesday 26th November 2025Razvan Raducanu, one of Avenues Quality Checkers, recently visited the Management team and employees at Central office, further strengthening co-production… |
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 Cecilia Foulger: Living Avenues’ values every dayMonday 24th November 2025When it comes to dedication, compassion, and integrity, Cecilia Foulger embodies everything that makes Avenues special. Recently named Avenues East’s… |
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 A spooktacular celebration at The Friars!Wednesday 12th November 2025Witches, ghouls, and even a demigorgon came out to play at The Friars in Aylesford for a Halloween-themed celebration that was… |
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 Avenues employer wins prestigious ‘Carer of the Year’ Award in KentWednesday 5th November 2025Avenues Service Manager Mel Parish came out top at the Adult Social Care (ASC) Awards, part of the Medway Provider… |
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 Matthew learns life-saving skillsTuesday 28th October 2025When Matthew told his support staff that he’d like to go on a basic life support course to learn CPR,… |
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 Groundbreaking ceremony marks start of new supported living homes in King’s LynnWednesday 22nd October 2025Construction has begun in Kings Lynn on 17 modern, accessible supported living homes for individuals with care and support needs…. |
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What is Supported Living? Hear from the people who call it homeTuesday 21st October 2025For many people, supported living offers the chance to live independently while still having support available when it’s needed. To… |
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 Avenues commits to Employer Pays Principle in Anti-Slavery WeekThursday 16th October 2025Anti-Slavery Week 2025 marks a significant time for Avenues. As well as teams continuing awareness-building training to spot the signs… |
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 Avenues celebrates more staff achievements across the organisationFriday 3rd October 2025This September, colleagues across two more of Avenues subsidiaries came together for fantastic staff celebration events. Teams at Autism Hampshire… |
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Creating a better future: Our response to the Autism Act reviewMonday 8th September 2025Avenues and Autism Hampshire are calling for consistent funding, stronger accountability, and meaningful inclusion of autistic voices to ensure everyone… |
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 Understanding Supported Living: One Family’s Experience with AvenuesMonday 8th September 2025“Supported living gave our daughters the chance to live the lives they want” – a parent’s perspective on planning for… |
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 Help shape the future of Avenues: New strategy and how to get involvedWednesday 6th August 2025Avenues is building a new strategy – and we’re doing it together, with the voices of people we support, our… |
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 Avenues celebrates its employees at Summer partiesMonday 4th August 2025Avenues been celebrating its fantastic employees at Awards parties held across the organisation and its regional subsidiaries. The celebrations kicked… |
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 Creating a space to thrive: a garden transformation in SouthamptonTuesday 22nd July 2025A garden in Bitterne, Southampton, has been given a new lease of life thanks to one of our support workers… |
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 Sidcup Rotary Club facilitates garden improvements at local Avenues serviceTuesday 15th July 2025People supported at an Avenues London service in Sidcup have been enjoying improved garden access following a makeover after a… |
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 An opportunity to use skills to help Avenues digital transformation; Jeff’s trustee storyWednesday 9th July 2025Jeff Boateng works in digital technology, helping organisations with digital change and transformation. He answered Avenues call out for trustees… |
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 Trustees learn about the work of Avenues’ Quality CheckersFriday 4th July 2025The trustee board of Avenues Group have been making themselves familiar with the work involved in checking the quality of… |
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 Celebrating excellence: Autism Hampshire and Avenues colleagues shortlisted for national awardsMonday 23rd June 2025Four outstanding individuals and teams from Autism Hampshire and Avenues will be recognised at a national awards event for their… |
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 Work begins on new supported housing in Norfolk for adults and young people with additional needsWednesday 18th June 2025A special ground breaking ceremony took place this week to celebrate the start of building work at a new supported… |
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 Free legal information now on Avenues websiteMonday 16th June 2025Avenues has teamed up with Access Social Care to enable people and their families to receive free legal information about… |
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 Matthew’s model successMonday 16th June 2025We know that understanding people’s true passions and interests is fundamental to giving them the support they need. For Matthew,… |
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 Avenues educates employees on how to identify victims of modern slavery and exploitationFriday 13th June 2025Avenues has been reminding its employees of how to spot signs of people who are victims of labour exploitation and… |
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 Helping those we support deal with bereavementMonday 9th June 2025Ways to remember mum Justin and Joe, whom we support at Avenues South East, have faced profound losses over the… |
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Avenues announces new trustee vacanciesFriday 6th June 2025Avenues is looking for new trustees to work with our Executive Director team to help shape the future of the… |
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 Family, community and a desire to give back: Rina’s storyThursday 5th June 2025Motivated by her brother who is autistic and a desire to educate, Rina Pandya was inspired to apply for a… |
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 CEO Jo Land thanks Avenues and Autism Hampshire volunteersMonday 2nd June 2025In Volunteers Week 2025 Group Chief Executive of Avenues Jo Land has taken the opportunity to thank people who volunteer… |
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Avenues signs joint statement calling on the Government to strengthen adult social careThursday 29th May 2025With not long to go until the Government’s spending review announcement on 11 June, it’s now time to act. At… |
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 Supporting each other in the Avenues communityFriday 16th May 2025Inspired by Mental Health Awareness Week, Avenues is encouraging people to support each other and reminding people of the benefits… |
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Digital systems at AvenuesThursday 15th May 2025At Avenues we are continuing to develop our digital systems, including how we record people’s support. This allows us to… |
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 Help shape national autism policy – share your views and experiencesMonday 12th May 2025Avenues Group is preparing a response to a national review of the Autism Act 2009 and the Government’s Autism Strategy… |
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 Autism Acceptance Week 2025, with Autism HampshireWednesday 26th March 2025Our team at Autism Hampshire are gearing up for Autism Acceptance Week 2025 , which will run from Monday 31… |
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 Family praises impact of Avenues supportMonday 24th March 2025Good person-centred support means understanding what really matters to people. and family connections are often at the heart of this…. |
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 Help us develop our new strategyWednesday 12th March 2025We are now building our new organisational strategy, which will be launched later this year. Our vision, mission and values… |
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 Support Vacancies available near Greenwich in LondonWednesday 29th January 2025Would you or someone you know with a disability like to live in the picturesque borough of Greenwich in London?… |
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 Avenues renews its commitment to Active Support with new trainingFriday 24th January 2025Avenues’ Director of Operations Dan Gower-Smith has just completed his six-month observation in Active Support, an assessment of how well… |
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Partners shutting out slavery’s gangmastersWednesday 15th January 2025Modern slavery commonly involves people being forced into taking jobs by criminals, who then take some or all their earnings… |
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 Independent governance review highlights Avenues’ strengthsTuesday 17th December 2024Avenues’ board of trustees recently asked the Charity Centre of Effectiveness to carry out an independent governance review against the… |
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 A visit to the London Transport Museum and a very special interview!Wednesday 4th December 2024Railway fan David loved his trip to the London Transport Museum so much that the team there have shared an… |
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 Avenues’ Quality inspections are underway: the people we support are reviewing what we doWednesday 4th December 2024Our new Quality Checkers are now out and about in services, giving their view on what’s good and what needs… |
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 Grieving family thanks Avenues staffTuesday 26th November 2024Church Farm Bungalow lost a cherished resident, Norman, on 14th October. Norman began his Avenues journey in 1993. He was… |
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 From dozing in his chair to Friday-night Abba singalongs: How an Avenues team rebuilt Michael’s confidence post-CovidFriday 22nd November 2024Michael had become confined to his flat following the pandemic. However, through Active Support, perseverance, and creativity, two years later… |
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 Autism Hampshire launches urgent fundraising appealWednesday 20th November 2024Our colleagues at Autism Hampshire have launched an urgent fundraising campaign to support our Serendipity Community Groups for autistic adults…. |
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 One year on: Autism Hampshire and Avenues celebrate integration anniversaryMonday 11th November 2024A year after Autism Hampshire joined Avenues Group, we’re pleased to mark the successful completion of our integration, bringing with… |
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Avenues response to the 2024 autumn BudgetFriday 8th November 2024The Labour government’s first Budget in autumn 2024, announced by Rachel Reeves, introduced a number of measures that could have… |
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 Modern Slavery: What we’re doing to stop itMonday 14th October 2024Anti-Slavery Day is celebrated on October 18th each year as part of Anti-Slavery Week. Its purpose is to raise awareness of modern… |
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 New job opportunity opens to provide potentially life-saving trainingFriday 11th October 2024Autism Hampshire is looking for its next recruits with lived experience to provide pivotal training for health and social care… |
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 New lives begin at Forest LaneFriday 30th August 202412 people with learning disabilities began a new chapter in their lives recently as Avenues took over the running of… |
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 Co-Production: Where are we now?Tuesday 16th July 2024Co-production is deeply ingrained in the support we provide at Avenues. It is crucial to us that the people we… |
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 Avenues is awarded an Age Inclusive Employer AccreditationMonday 24th June 2024Avenues has been accredited as an age inclusive employer through its partnership with Rest Less UK. This accreditation demonstrates Avenues’… |
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 Supporting Mental Health AwarenessMonday 13th May 2024Mental Health Awareness Week highlights the importance of maintaining our mental health just as much as we look after our… |
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 Avenues says why families are so important in social care magazineWednesday 8th May 2024Avenues has been talking about how important families are to the organisation in a leading social care magazine. The latest… |
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 World Autism Acceptance Week starts 2nd April 2024Thursday 28th March 2024From April 2nd to 8th many people around the world will be taking part in events for World Autism Acceptance… |
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Improvement programme continues at new serviceMonday 4th March 2024Avenues is fulfilling a detailed action plan to improve its Mandalay service in Essex after its latest Care Quality Commission… |
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Gender Pay Gap Data 2023Monday 19th February 2024Avenues is a not-for profit organisation which works with autistic people, people with learning disability, and multiple or complex needs…. |
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CQC recognise improvements at Emily Jackson CloseFriday 26th January 2024Our service at 1-3 Emily Jackson Close in Kent has demonstrated improvements in its most recent Care Quality Commission (CQC)… |
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 Celebrating a fantastic year of fundraising with the Mayor of BexleyTuesday 19th December 2023Avenues employees and people supported by the organisation enjoyed an evening with the former Mayor of Bexley recently where he… |
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 Glowing CQC report for Surrey care homeMonday 4th December 2023We’re really pleased that Church Farm Bungalow, our residential care home in Ottershaw, Surrey has maintained its ‘Good’ Care Quality… |
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Avenues tackles cost of living crisis for disabled peopleWednesday 15th November 2023Avenues has added its support to the #SupportCantWait campaign which aims to pressure the UK government to tackle how the… |
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 Latest News: Autism Hampshire joins Avenues GroupWednesday 1st November 2023Autism Hampshire, a leading charity dedicated to providing support and services to autistic people and their families, is merging with… |
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 Nick celebrates milestone with Mum and DadTuesday 31st October 2023Nick Walker has been supported by Avenues for over 20 years. We first told his story in 2021 when, after… |
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CQC rating for Emily Jackson CloseTuesday 31st October 2023Avenues is carrying out a detailed action plan to improve its service at 1-3 Emily Jackson Close in Kent after… |
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 Avenues comes together to discuss supporting the Menopause at workWednesday 18th October 2023Around 75% of Avenues employees are female with more than 50% of those over 45 years old. This is just… |
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 Avenues introduces its first Mental Health ChampionsWednesday 11th October 2023Around 1 in 7 people experience a mental health difficulty at work. With this in mind Avenues has recruited its… |
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 Autism Hampshire to join Avenues (easy read)Tuesday 26th September 2023On the 1st of November we will welcome Autism Hampshire into the Avenues Group. Please see the link below for… |
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 Autism Hampshire to join Avenues GroupFriday 22nd September 2023Avenues Group and Autism Hampshire have agreed to merge. From 1 November 2023, Autism Hampshire will be part of Avenues… |
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 Avenues South supported living celebrates ‘Outstanding’ rating for a second timeFriday 25th August 2023Avenues South supported living services have been given a prestigious ‘Outstanding’ rating by industry watchdog the Care Quality Commission (CQC)… |
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 Charlie bids John a fond farewellWednesday 28th June 2023From the moment John met Charlie they were inseparable. When John, who was supported by Avenues in Surrey, passed away… |
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 Co-production project shines light on health needsWednesday 28th June 2023People we support have been sharing their pandemic experiences to help health professionals improve their understanding of the needs of… |
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Cream teas and karaoke: Avenues celebrates 30 years in styleThursday 22nd June 2023It was an afternoon of boat rides and barbecues, Karaoke and cream teas as Avenues employees, people supported by the… |
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 Celebrating 30 years of AvenuesFriday 9th June 20232023 marks the 30th anniversary of Avenues, and this summer we’re celebrating all we have achieved together over the last… |
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CQC praises ‘caring and kind’ support at Avenues Supported Living in HampshireThursday 1st June 2023We are pleased that the Care Quality Commission (CQC) has awarded our supported living service in Hampshire a ‘Good’ rating… |
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 Health scare brings new skills for SarahTuesday 30th May 2023The people we work with count on their support teams. They give them confidence to live their lives knowing that… |
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Improvements continue at Webb Road after CQC visitFriday 19th May 2023Avenues is fulfilling a detailed action plan to improve its service at Webb Road in London after its latest Care… |
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 My Vote My Voice: Supporting the right to vote in 2024Friday 5th May 2023In preparation for the general election in 2024 Avenues has signed up to the My Vote My Voice campaign. The… |
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 Mayor puts Avenues on the mapFriday 28th April 2023The Mayor of Bexley has vowed to give Avenues ‘the recognition it deserves’ after visiting one of its’ supported living… |
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 Celebrating ‘Outstanding’ care every day in podcast seriesTuesday 14th February 2023Avenues’ Director of Operations Dan Gower-Smith and Senior Operations Manager Hayley Taylor recently took part in Skills for Care ‘The… |
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 Volunteering as a trustee – Rich’s storyTuesday 14th February 2023All charities rely on their trustees who make sure the organisation is doing what it promises for society. Rich Hodgson… |
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 Sharing our PBS skills and knowledgeMonday 16th January 2023Avenues’ growing reputation for sector-leading Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is allowing us to share our expertise with other providers. Recently… |
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 John’s journey to independenceMonday 2nd January 2023“Some might feel that 13 is an unlucky number but I am so happy to be moving into flat number… |
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 Emerton Close – case studyMonday 2nd January 2023People with profound and multiple disabilities need extensive support in all aspects of everyday life, from movement, to eating, personal… |
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Westhall Park service updateThursday 29th December 2022Westhall Park in Surrey is a residential care home providing accommodation and personal care for up to six people with… |
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Guidance for visitors to our servicesWednesday 21st December 2022This information for visitors to our services was updated on 01/06/23 to reflect Government guidance on coronavirus infection control. The… |
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 Record-breaking CQC ‘hat-trick’ for AvenuesMonday 21st November 2022Avenues has become the first ever Supported Living provider to achieve an Outstanding CQC rating three times in a row…. |
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CQC rating for Glebe HouseMonday 21st November 2022Avenues is fulfilling a detailed action plan to improve its service at Glebe House in London after its latest Care… |
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 Queen Elizabeth IIFriday 9th September 2022Our sympathies are with those across our communities who are mourning the passing of Queen Elizabeth, a truly extraordinary monarch… |
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 Avenues now supporting people in HampshireMonday 18th July 2022Avenues is now supporting people in Hampshire for the first time, after being selected to take over and turn around… |
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 Case study – supporting better health through PBSWednesday 25th May 2022When we started supporting Daniel, the greatest challenges he faced were his anxiety levels, and the distressed behaviour which this… |
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Gender Pay Gap Data 2021Thursday 17th March 2022Avenues is a not-for profit organisation which works with people with autism, learning disability, and multiple or complex needs. Our… |
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 Quality mark for Avenues training is renewedMonday 28th February 2022Great support relies on great training, so we’re delighted to hear that we’ve met Skills for Care’s new higher standards… |
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 New exhibition celebrates people’s creativityThursday 11th November 2021Neurodiversity has produced some incredible art throughout history, and plays a big part in the lives of many people Avenues… |
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Gender Pay Gap Data 2020Friday 22nd October 2021Avenues is a not-for profit organisation which works with people with autism, learning disability, and multiple or complex needs. Our… |
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 Life turns around for JoeThursday 30th September 2021At Avenues we know that creating the right environment for people is fundamental to their health and wellbeing, and the… |
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 Madame Tussauds London seek out Avenues’ expertsWednesday 22nd September 2021One of the UK’s top tourist attractions, Madame Tussauds London, has sought Avenues expert help in improving it’s guest experience for… |
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 Better lives depend on better fundingMonday 13th September 2021Avenues has collaborated with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and other providers on a new report which agrees the key… |
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 Michael and Monim fulfill their time-travelling dreamTuesday 7th September 2021It was a case of travelling to Dorset rather than another galaxy recently as Doctor Who fans Michael and Monim… |
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Switching support brings parents new peace of mindMonday 9th August 2021“As parents you always have this worry about the future, but for us that feeling’s finally been replaced with peace… |
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UK government publishes the National Disability Strategy – Avenues ResponseThursday 29th July 2021This strategy begins to address the unfairness that faces so many people in their day to day lives. However, if… |
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 Avenues’ Positive Behaviour Support Training highlighted by Health Education EnglandTuesday 6th July 2021Avenues approach to Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) training is being shared with the sector nationally. A report on Avenues’ comprehensive training… |
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 ‘Incredible’ support is life changing for grieving familyFriday 21st May 2021A family hit by tragedy during the pandemic are building a bright new future with Avenues support. When Charlotte Pocock… |
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 Linden House: supporting independence, growth and happinessTuesday 18th May 2021Avenues’ new service in London is proving its worth, as the people living there thrive in an environment which supports… |
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 Supporting Nick back to healthThursday 22nd April 2021When Nick suffered a severe stroke in 2019, consultants said that he was fortunate to be alive. The future looked… |
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 The Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities report – Avenues responseThursday 22nd April 2021On 31st March the Commission on Race Equalities and Ethnic Disparities published their report in the UK. The research and… |
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Welmede name will change to Avenues SouthWednesday 31st March 2021From the 1st April 2021 our Welmede subsidiary will change its name to Avenues South, in line with other regional… |
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Supreme Court ruling on ‘sleep-in’ payments – Avenues responseFriday 19th March 2021Today, the Supreme Court concluded that National Minimum Wage does not apply to ‘sleep-in’ shifts for periods when a worker… |
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Coronavirus vaccine – overcoming needle phobiaMonday 8th March 2021Needle phobia is a common issue for people with learning disability, and is currently creating real jeopardy for their health… |
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 Co-Production with Avenues – Have your say! Wednesday 16th DecemberWednesday 9th December 2020Are you interested in impacting the future of Avenues and the way the organisation supports people? Avenues are committed to improving people’s lives and co-production is a huge part of how we can achieve positive outcomes for the people we support. Our Co-production and Active Support Partner, Nikki Hollands is currently looking at… |
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 Young people’s service take over Avenues social mediaFriday 4th December 2020Young people from one of Avenues’ Surrey services will take over Avenues’ Facebook and Instagram pages from the 7th December for one week. Francesca, James, Jack, Jenny and Ankush are part of a transition service in Surrey which equips young people with the skills they need for independent living from managing money to cooking meals. |
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 Perseverance pays off for Claude’s happinessFriday 20th November 2020When the Mayor of Bromley visited Avenues service Amplio House recently, one man made a big impact on her companion, Counsellor Colin Hitchins. He had met resident Claude many years previously, and was delighted to see the dramatic, visible change in Claude’s wellbeing with Avenues support |
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Housing complaints process reviewMonday 16th November 2020As part of our commitment to customer services we have reviewed our complaints process against the Housing Ombudsman’s complaints code. This work will inform our new procedure for making a complaints, which will also be published on this website in Spring 2021. |
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PHE report on Covid-19 learning disability death rate – Avenues responseFriday 13th November 2020It is no surprise that people with learning disabilities had a higher mortality rate during the first wave of the pandemic; they are commonly faced with complex health conditions that make them more vulnerable to secondary illnesses. But given that this vulnerability is well-established, we should all be asking why more wasn’t done to protect this group of people. |
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Global recognition for Avenues governanceTuesday 10th November 2020We’re delighted that one of our amazing staff has been recognised with an international award for her work in making the charity stronger, and more able to deliver its vision for people. Lauren Osman is now a Modern Governance 100 Recipient; a prestigious award given by global governance specialists. |
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Gender Pay Gap Data 2019Friday 30th October 2020Avenues is a not-for profit organisation which works with people with autism, learning disability, and multiple or complex needs. Our mission is to reduce the disadvantage people face through their disability, illness or injury, and we are opposed to discrimination of any kind. This includes gender inequality, and we undertake an internal monitoring programme… |
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 New group director appointedThursday 15th October 2020Avenues has confirmed Caroline Neal as its new Group Director of People. The new post will develop and lead the strategy to ensure the organisation continues to offer sector- leading careers. Caroline was previously Head of Human Resources, and was appointed following a rigorous recruitment process by the Group’s trustees. |
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 Avenues trustees commit to Charity Governance CodeTuesday 13th October 2020The Avenues Group Boards have signed up to the Charity Governance Code as part of our commitment to further strengthening all parts of the organisation – including the skills of our trustees. The code supports our compliance with the law and regulations, and a culture where everything works towards fulfilling the charity’s vision. |
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New director will drive growth of Avenues GroupFriday 25th September 2020Avenues has appointed a new director of business development to support its commitment to expand into new regions, and support more people to enjoy better lives. Karina Hourd will take up her new post on Monday 28 September. She joins Avenues from Dimensions, where she was head of business development. |
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Doors open on new £1.3m transition serviceMonday 24th August 2020The first young person to move into our new specialist service is settling in well, enjoying the freedom and independence of community-based life. The service in Tottenham has been developed in partnership with Haringey Council, and was previously an eight-bedded residential home. |
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 Mayor ‘inspired and uplifted’ by Avenues serviceSaturday 8th August 2020Avenues’ Amplio House service in Bromley, London, recently received a visit from the borough’s Mayor who attended a fundraising barbecue. The Mayor chose the service for her first post-lockdown official outing and spoke to staff, people supported at the service and Avenues’ CEO Jo Land. |
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 The calming effect of a swingThursday 6th August 2020After a two year quest one of Avenues London services has finally been able to have an adapted garden swing fitted for one of the people they support and it was well worth the wait. The whole family turned out to see Margaret, who is supported by Avenues London, debut on her new swing… |
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 Avenues East hits a high noteWednesday 29th July 2020We know how important music is to many of the people we support at Avenues and musicians are frequent visitors to our services. Our Community Support Service in Avenues East regularly works with the music charity Musica, who provide workshops to people with disabilities and mental health issues, amongst others. |
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COVID-19 office risk assessmentTuesday 30th June 2020In line with best practice and Government advice, we have published our risk assessment for people using the the group’s offices. The risk is the spread of Covid-19 and would affect all staff, visitors, cleaners, contractors, more vulnerable groups and anyone who physically comes into contact with the business environment. |
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 Black Lives MatterFriday 19th June 2020The tragedy and distress that we have witnessed in communities within US, UK and across the world over recent weeks has been appalling, and we at Avenues fully support the call for the urgent and systemic change. Black lives matter. |
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CQC report on COVID-19 deaths – Avenues responseTuesday 2nd June 2020The CQC’s findings are a tragic demonstration of the consequences of the current COVID testing arrangements for people with learning disability and autism. The current prioritisation of elderly people in care homes neglects the risks faced by younger vulnerable people who live in our communities, whose lives are equally valuable. |
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New Covid-19 testing plan urgently neededWednesday 27th May 2020Avenues is concerned that the lives of the people the organisation supports are being put at risk through their omission from the Government’s current Covid-19 testing programme. The majority of our service users have multiple or complex health needs, which put them at heightened susceptibility to the disease. |
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 Behind the MaskFriday 22nd May 2020This year’s Mental Health Awareness Week focuses on kindness, which is fundamental to how we do things at Avenues. For one employee what began as a kind gesture towards a family member has snowballed into an extraordinary personal project to help her colleagues and even local businesses… |
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 Matthew’s creativity helps him understand life under Covid lockdownThursday 7th May 2020Life under lockdown and the impact of COVID-19 has been difficult for everyone but for people with a learning disability and those that support them there can be an added level of challenge. For many not being able to attend the usual activities can be confusing. |
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Government release COVID-19 ‘action plan for adult social care’, Jo Land commentsThursday 16th April 2020This action plan could not have come soon enough; alongside NHS colleagues, Avenues staff and those in the wider care sector are doing a truly exceptional job during these most testing of times, showing huge professionalism, composure and dedication to ensure the safety of some of the most vulnerable people in our society. |
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 Egg hunts, tasty treats and a floral surprise: Easter at AvenuesWednesday 15th April 2020Despite a UK-wide lock down people across Avenues services spent an active weekend celebrating Easter. Although a difficult time for many, having to be away from family and loved ones, staff rose to the challenge and organised everything from Easter egg hunts to making innovative decorations. |
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 Avenues’ needs you! COVID-19 and Fast-Track recruitmentTuesday 7th April 2020Have you ever thought of supporting someone with a learning disability? During the COVID-19 pandemic we are operating an Fast-Track recruitment process. This includes video interviewing and e-learning before you start, which means we can get you supporting people that need you as soon as possible. |
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 Steve James retiresFriday 27th March 2020Today we bid a fond farewell to our ex-Chief Executive Steve James who is officially leaving Avenues after over 25 years. Steve founded Avenues, which was previously Kelsey Care, in 1999 and proudly shaped it into the person-centred organisation it is today, consistently putting people we support first. |
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COVID-19: Coronavirus: Avenues responseFriday 13th March 2020The Avenues Group is committed to taking all necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 (coronavirus), in order to protect both the people we support, employees and visitors. This is a rapidly developing situation and in line with current advice from Public Health England and World Health Organisation… |
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 Michael’s gardening experience – Part 2Wednesday 12th February 2020As part of his Avenues support plan Michael works regularly in a horticulture project in Kent. In this film he shows us around the project, gives an insight into his work and tells us why the project and support is so beneficial for him. |
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 Avenues Apprenticeships – Brendan’s storyFriday 7th February 2020An apprenticeship helped Brendan Owusu-Ansah move from the football field to the Avenues office. Between 2010 and 2016 Brendan Owusu-Ansah’s daily routine consisted of several hours of morning training on a football field, lunch with team-mates and a rigorous gym workout in the afternoon. |
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 Michael’s gardening experience bears fruitWednesday 22nd January 2020“I like to get my hands dirty, the feeling of soil on my hands” says Michael, rubbing his palms. Walking around a greenhouse filled with seedlings and saplings, Michael has no problem enthusiastically identifying plant types “We grow lots of plants in here”, he says. He looks inquisitively at one with varying coloured leaves… |
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New Group CEO for AvenuesWednesday 15th January 2020Jo Land has been appointed by trustees as the new Group Chief Executive of Avenues. Jo has worked for Avenues since October 2000, and was previously Group Deputy Chief Executive, in addition to her role as Director of Organisational Development. She had been leading the organisation on an interim basis since the departure of previous CEO Steve James in 2019. |
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Keeping the brothers together – VideoMonday 30th December 2019When three brothers were in danger of losing support the local council asked Avenues to help. Little by little the… |
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 A Makaton Christmas CelebrationThursday 19th December 201919/12/2019 Staff in one of Avenues’ Kent services have been using their skills to create a Christmas Advent Calendar with… |
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 Avenues launches PodcastWednesday 18th December 2019Avenues recently debuted its first Podcast. The podcast, available though Soundcloud, will be an audio downloadable platform to discuss topical… |
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 Avenues supports MovemberFriday 15th November 2019As an organisation where the male ratio of people we support is over 60%, Avenues has been showing it’s support… |
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 A life beyond her label – Christina’s storyFriday 8th November 2019People with autism typically need strong routine and order to feel comfortable. But without regulation, this can dominate their lives,… |
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 New training package to support working with familiesMonday 7th October 2019Avenues has developed a new training package to support the wider adult social care sector to work more effectively with… |
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Keeping the brothers togetherThursday 3rd October 2019Three brothers with learning disabilities, who were struggling to find support, are now enjoying better lives together. Avenues was approached… |
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 Teams respond to food bank shortageMonday 30th September 2019Avenues staff dug deep after hearing their local food bank was running low on supplies. Employees donated more than 100… |
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 Living a good life – Roger’s storyThursday 26th September 2019Having the chance to contribute to the community plays an important role in people’s wellbeing, and it’s no different if… |
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 New Podcast! Relationships, Sex and DisabilityWednesday 18th September 2019Avenues has a brand new podcast episode! This month in support of Sexual Health Week 2019 we look at relationships, sex… |
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 Recruitment open dayThursday 12th September 2019Have you ever considered supporting someone with a learning disability to enjoy life? One of our Avenues services in Kingston-Upon-Thames… |
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 Avenues full of surprises for student police recruitMonday 19th August 2019A number of Avenues Services have been playing host to Kent student police officers as they undertake community placements as… |
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All Avenues support ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’, says CQCThursday 8th August 2019All Avenues support services are now rated as ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ overall, according to social care regulator the Care Quality… |
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 Support worker uses poetry to get her message acrossFriday 26th July 2019An Avenues support worker is using her poetry as a way of strengthening her team’s connection with the people they… |
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 A sense of hope – Rachel’s storyFriday 19th July 2019While ‘life-limiting’ illness must be recognised and planned for, this medical diagnosis can have a greater impact on day-to-day life… |
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 Sophie hits the waterThursday 18th July 2019It’s been all about feeling the wind in her hair as Sophie, who is supported by Avenues in Kent, has recently been… |
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 It Takes 2 – final report publishedFriday 14th June 2019Our lottery-funded project to support people with learning disability to build meaningful social connections has been completed. Between 2016 and 2019… |
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 A job for the boysThursday 13th June 2019(l/r) Ethan with fellow support workers Oliver and Kai Effective support services have to be built around the needs of… |
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Panorama ‘Crisis in Care – Part 1’ – Avenues responseThursday 30th May 2019This statement relates to the findings of a BBC investigation, broadcast on 29 May 2019. Avenues Interim Chief Executive Jo… |
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Panorama ‘Hospital Abuse Scandal’ – Avenues responseWednesday 22nd May 2019This statement relates to the findings of a BBC undercover investigation, broadcast on 22 May 2019. Avenues Interim Chief Executive… |
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CQC report on the use of ATUs – Avenues responseTuesday 21st May 2019Commenting on this morning’s release of the CQC’s interim report on the segregation of people with learning disability or autism… |
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Jo Land appointed as interim CEOFriday 3rd May 2019Jo Land has been appointed as Interim Group Chief Executive at Avenues, following the retirement of Steve James after… |
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Tori and Emily; listening to Mum and DadThursday 18th April 2019Working with people’s families helps us understand what matters to them, and the way they want to live their life…. |
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Gender Pay Gap Data 2018Wednesday 20th March 201920/03/2019 Avenues is a not-for profit organisation which works with people with autism, learning disability, and multiple or complex needs…. |
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 It Takes 2 project reveals successes and limitationsFriday 22nd February 2019The need for sustainable community engagement has been highlighted in the third discussion paper from the Avenues Big Lottery funded… |
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 Robert’s story: Life without restraintFriday 15th February 2019“We all enjoy Robert’s visits– when we see the car pull up it makes us smile and we know to… |
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Statement on JCHR findings: Time for actions which end “horrific” practicesFriday 11th January 2019While we welcome the findings of the Human Rights Committee and are thankful for the attention they have given this… |
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NHS Long Term Plan – “an integrated strategic response involving health and social care is required”, Avenues responds.Tuesday 8th January 2019This statement is a response to the recent publication of the NHS Long Term Plan and in particular the plans… |
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Founding CEO to retire in 2019Monday 17th December 2018Steve James has announced he will retire as Chief Executive of Avenues Group on 31 March 2019. He said: “Having… |
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Society gets a skewed view of social care – Steve JamesThursday 4th October 2018It’s widely understood that our social care system is in ‘crisis’, particularly in terms of its workforce. But many people… |
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Restraint of people with learning disability – Avenues responseTuesday 2nd October 2018This statement is our response to the news that the use of restraint on adults with learning disabilities in hospital units in… |
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Support teams as extended familyTuesday 11th September 2018Giving someone quality support depends on understanding them as an individual – their specific needs, what they like, what they… |
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‘It Takes 2’ tropical party brings people togetherMonday 10th September 2018Avenues’ Lottery-funded ‘It Takes 2’ (IT2) project recently teamed up with Community Centre and Reach Out organisation Mycenae House to… |
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Kindness and understanding countFriday 7th September 2018Nigel and Mandy Mullett’s daughters, Tori and Emily, have been supported by Avenues for ten years. Nigel shared their insights… |
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The effect of respect in support workThursday 23rd August 2018The impact good support has on people’s lives can be extraordinary, and produce results that were never thought possible. The… |
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 Schools understanding disability through sports partnershipTuesday 21st August 2018The annual Royal Hospital School (RHS) and Avenues Games in Ipswich, is a chance for those supported by Avenues in… |
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Praise for ‘wonderful’ new transition service.Monday 6th August 2018Commissioners and family members have praised a new Avenues transition service in Bexleyheath. The house, comprising three flats and separate… |
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Evaluation of equality and diversity training demonstrates value at AvenuesThursday 2nd August 2018New data, taken from managers’ feedback on our equality and diversity training demonstrates the value and positive impact it has… |
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Supporting Charley – a Transforming Care case studyFriday 1st June 2018Read our latest update on Charley’s progess. Charley was admitted to a psychiatric unit when her challenging behaviours escalated in… |
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 Video: Supporting LyndaTuesday 29th May 2018At Avenues, because of the complex nature of what we do, we often hear the phrase ‘small steps are giant… |
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Award-winning Avenues project continues to inspire and motivateTuesday 24th April 2018‘Increased confidence’ and ‘being more connected in the community’ are just some of the participants comments reported in second year… |
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Gender Pay Gap Data 2017Thursday 22nd March 2018Avenues is a not-for profit organisation which works with people with autism, learning disability, and multiple or complex needs. Our… |
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It Takes 2 study reveals successes and limitationsThursday 22nd February 2018The need for sustainable community engagement has been highlighted in the third discussion paper from the Avenues Big Lottery funded… |
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Praise for development of complex serviceMonday 6th November 2017Our newly-developed property at Amis Avenue opened its doors to partners from Surrey County Council, NHS England and the Voluntary… |
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Rob’s Blog: My trip to see Man UnitedTuesday 15th August 2017Rob, who is supported by Avenues, talks about his recent trip to Manchester, and how it gave him the chance… |
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Jim’s blog: It Takes 2 – ‘All That Jazz’Tuesday 1st August 2017As part of my list of ‘things to do’ in 2017 I rashly decided to sign up for a weekly… |
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IiP recognises Avenues as great employerWednesday 26th July 2017Avenues has been awarded a silver accreditation against the Investors in People Standard demonstrating our commitment to high performance through… |
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John Taylor, Avenues Trustee, commended for work in the communityTuesday 25th July 2017John Taylor, Avenues Trustee received a commendation at Sevenoaks District Council’s Making it Happen Awards. Martin Chittell, Practice Development Lead… |
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Luke’s storyThursday 13th July 2017When Luke* first came to Avenues East he was suffering from depression and did not want to leave the security… |
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A positive behaviour support approach to visionThursday 25th May 2017Avenues Practice Development team are working in collaboration with The National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) to raise awareness and… |
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Sophie’s blog: It Takes 2Thursday 11th May 2017Sophie, ambassador for Avenues project It Takes 2, blogs about her experience of the project and what she enjoys about… |
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How we support people moving out of long-stay hospitalsWednesday 22nd March 2017Andrea Wiggins, New Project Director at Avenues talks about how we work with people moving out of long-stay hospitals, and… |
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Using systematic desensitisation with people we supportThursday 9th March 2017Sarah Kean, Practice Development Lead at Avenues talks about systematic desensitisation and its value when working with people with learning… |
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My placement at AvenuesThursday 26th January 2017Jazzmin Robinson, trainee police officer, blogs about her placement at one of our residential services in Kent. As part of… |
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‘It takes 2’ wins Community Cohesion Award in GreenwichMonday 19th December 2016In October, Avenues project, ‘It takes 2’, won the Greenwich Action for Voluntary Service (GAVS) Community Cohesion Award in recognition… |
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Aisha’s blog: getting to know people we support at a new serviceFriday 25th November 2016Aisha Byamugisha, Service Manager at Amplio House talks about getting to know the tenants at her new service and why… |
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Welmede and Avenues have mergedTuesday 8th November 2016Avenues Group and Welmede announce today that they have merged. Welmede has become an operating subsidiary of Avenues Group. Our… |
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Transforming Care for Children and Young People: Mindfulness, Positive Behaviour Support and Active Support training for parents.Thursday 6th October 2016Earlier this year, Avenues was awarded a Transforming Care grant by NHS England. The grant funded project in Greenwich worked… |
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The Pines: our new supported living service in Tunbridge WellsFriday 12th August 2016Over the past two and a half years Chris Crees, Service Manager at one of our supported living services for… |
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New chair appointedTuesday 9th August 2016Terry Rich has been appointed Group Board Chair of Avenues Group. As chair, he will be responsible for the overall… |
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Team from Avenues completes London to Brighton 100km challengeWednesday 8th June 2016Over the May bank holiday weekend a group of Avenues employees, some people we support, plus friends and family members attempted… |
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Six quick ways to practice mindfulness during your dayThursday 5th May 2016Mindfulness is an approach that helps people to manage their thoughts and feelings. Chris Gregory, Learning and Development Manager at… |
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Avenues achieves HSCIC complianceFriday 8th April 2016Avenues has recently achieved compliance with the Health and Social Care Information Centre (HSCIC) Information Governance toolkit (level two). Protecting… |
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Common misconceptions about autismWednesday 23rd March 2016To mark World Autism Awareness Day, Regional Director Mickey Gray dispels five false ideas about the condition … The rainbow-colored… |
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Optua UK name changes to AvenuesMonday 1st February 2016Optua UK, the specialist provider of case management and support for people with an acquired brain injury, will now be… |
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Avenues chosen to run Bromley support servicesThursday 26th November 2015Avenues London has been successful in securing a contract to manage five support services in the south east London borough… |
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Avenues secures Big Lottery grant to launch new project ‘It Takes 2’Friday 13th November 2015Avenues has been granted £300,000 by the Big Lottery to launch our new project, It Takes 2, which aims to… |
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CQC rates Avenues supported living service outstanding in all areas – a first in EnglandMonday 7th September 2015An Avenues supported living service is the first of its kind to be rated outstanding in all five areas inspected… |
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Avenues tender success in borough of BexleyThursday 21st May 2015Avenues London has been successful in securing a contract to manage two Learning Disability support services in the London Borough… |
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Avenues service wins award for outstanding end of life careThursday 5th February 2015Avenues is proud to announce that Hope House, a supported living service in Suffolk, has been commended for outstanding support… |
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