Care workers have recreated a pub and 'Greggs' sausage rolls to help people with autism cope with lockdown

Staff at Education and Services for People with Autism (ESPA) have been inventing some creative ways to ensure that the normal routines for those in their care continue during lockdown.

Support workers have been recreating pubs, sausage rolls from Greggs and even charity shops – all from the safety of their homes.

Like many, ESPA have found that lockdown has had a huge impact on the lives of the people they support, especially the routines that people have.

Chief Executive Lesley Lane explains why it is so important for people with autism to have a routine: “It gives them a sense of security.

“If their routines are disrupted in any sort of way, it can cause unnecessary anxiety and stress.”

Here are some of the ways created by carers to keep some normality:

Josh and Julia live in a care home in Sunderland. They both loved regular trips to the pub for a drink and a game of pool.

Since lockdown forced pubs to shut, carers have recreated a bar, complete with pool table, lighting and music so they can enjoy their favourite tipple.

Their local pub even donated some crisps and pork scratchings.

Paul lives in a residential home in Roker. He enjoys going to a charity shop twice a week so he can choose a CD or DVD.

These trips were always followed by going to Greggs for a sausage roll.

Staff decided to create a small charity shop in their conservatory and began baking sausage rolls at home so every Tuesday and Thursday, Paul can continue his normal routine.

Support workers even managed to source paper bags from kind-hearted staff at Greggs before they closed to ensure that the treat feels authentic.

Chris was missing his regular visits to local cafés for sweet treats. Staff supported him to make a list of his favourite cakes which he is now baking at home.

Staff at ESPA say this has really helped minimise his anxiety during isolation and provided a much needed structure to his day.

So far Chris has baked banana bread, lemon cheesecake and chocolate brownies.

Support workers have said that the creative ideas have managed to reduce any stress and anxieties that those in their care may have had at the start of lockdown.

Lesley has praised the team for their efforts, adding: “Staff across ESPA have been amazing.

“They have been really creative and gone the extra mile to try and replace some of the community activities people loved within their homes.”

Earlier this month, the Government made changes to lockdown rules to make life easier for those with autism and other learning disabilities.

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