Gelsenkirchen, 24 February 2022: The TASK (Therapy Autism Spectrum and Communication Disorders) specialist group at the Gelsenkirchen workshops is celebrating its 10th anniversary. In 10 years of autism support, the group has developed various therapeutic approaches, tried out many things, expanded and continued to develop. The specialist group supports people with autism spectrum disorder by offering a wide range of therapies to improve their quality of life. In 10 years, the TASK specialist group has gained a great deal of experience in autism support. To mark the anniversary, a therapy box has been put together to familiarise interested parties with the methods. The box contains a selection of materials and short instructions:

• Weekly schedule (create predictability)
• Hand washing schedule
• Velcro folders / one-box tasks – Relaxation / stress reduction
• Sensory integration
• Communication / sign language

The specialist group follows the TEACCH approach (Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communication handicapped Children): Treatment and Educational Advancement of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children). This method provides people with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with a clear structure and orientation in time and space and helps them to understand the relationships between work tasks and processes. Not only people with ASD benefit from the TEACCH approach. People with cognitive impairments, genetic disorders (e.g. Down syndrome) or

communication impairments, structuring aids such as plans (daily plans, weekly plans) and visual instructions (sequence of an activity) can also be used. The aim should always be to maximise independence and improve quality of life.

The recognised non-profit Werkverein Gelsenkirchen e.V. is the umbrella organisation for both social enterprises. Its task is to master the challenges of successful inclusion and to support, accompany and care for people with support needs. The focus is on the areas of work and housing. The Werkverein operates the companies Gelsenkirchener Werkstätten für angepaßte Arbeit gGmbH and Lebenswelt Gabriel gGmbH. In the Gelsenkirchen workshops and the inpatient and outpatient residential facilities of Lebenswelt Gabriel, around 1,000 people with and without support needs are committed to achieving the goals. www.werkverein-ge.de

Mrs Jacqueline Kocyan

Gelsenkirchen Workshops for Adapted Work Management Office

Tel.: 0209 958 96 8400

info@werkverein-ge.de