Robby's Story

Robby is 14 and has autism. This means that he exhibits a number of unpredictable behaviours, both at home and on outings. This can include biting, hitting, scratching, screaming and other inappropriate behaviours. Robby has even been known to hit out at members of the community.

The nature of Robby’s condition puts a heavy strain upon his family so Barnardos has offered temporary respite for them in the form of the Teenagers and Young Adults Social Scene (T&YASS) program at Barnardos Penrith. The T&YASS program offers assistance to families with teenagers who have a disability as part of Barnardos Penrith’s disability suite of programs.

The program gives young people access to a range of activities, outings and social contact with their local community. It has been adapted to cater for young people like Robby who need a high level of one-on-one support by patient and experienced carers.

Disability Groups