Group offers fun and friendship

A SOCIAL skills support group in Ballarat is seeking to provide a safe space for children and adults who are on the autism spectrum.

Eb’s Rainbow allows people on the spectrum to come together, build friendships, and learn life skills while having fun and playing games.

There are a range of programs available that focus on different areas such as fitness, creativity, and Lego.

Group founder Kerry Tuxworth started Eb’s Rainbow in memory of her daughter.

“My daughter Ebony passed away quite suddenly last year so as a legacy for her Eb’s Rainbow has come about,” she said.

“That’s simply because at the time of her death Ebony was working in disability support, absolutely loved it and she was a person who was extremely non-judgemental and would help anyone.

“I am wanting to create a space for the community to be able to come, feel welcome, feel wanted and feel at home.

“It’s all about working on their social skills so incorporating challenging conversations.”

As part of Eb’s Rainbow, participants can work on a range of skills that help them in everyday life.

“At the moment in the Lego group we are working on taking turns when talking because they are excited and the want to talk,” said Ms Tuxworth.

“Also fine motor skills, how to share and interact, adjusting to new social situations and building independence.”

Ms Tuxworth said part of the Eb’s Rainbow mission was to address an shortfall in support for people on the autism spectrum in the region.

“There’s a huge gap unfortunately for people with Autism,” she said. “There’s only one other group that I’m aware of in Ballarat but otherwise there’s nothing else.

“I have big hopes a dreams to one day have a farm and a cafe and be able to employ people with disability.

“I hope this encourages the local government and support services to get behind and create more opportunities like this for people with disability to build that connection.”