The Synergy Programme
developing local capacity, practice and expertiseWhat isThe Synergy
Programme?

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What arethe main aimsof Synergy?

S ynergy began in Greece in 2013 as a partnership between AT-Autism and theAikaterini Laskaridis Foundation, Piraeus. This was in response to children excluded fromGreek schools by reason of ‘challenging behaviour’. Some of these children were autistic,some were refugees, some with intellectual disabilities some with mental health needs.
T he main focus of Synergy is on the mind-set and stress of teacher (worker) or parent –not the behaviour of the child. This helps to develop self-awareness and empathy for how
the child experiences the world. It begins to change narrative, culture and the nature of therelationship. Synergy is now used by workers in a number of disciplines, including people
with intellectual disabilities, refugees, homeless people and autistic children and adults.
There is an ongoing evaluation by the Universities of Athens and the Peloponnese.
S ynergy is about building local capacity and is currently operating in several countries,
including Greece, Australia and the UK.

Synergy aims to:nnn

 uild capacity through short, intensive CPD accredited training which aids fidelity and makes
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the programme sustainable and economically viable. It is the intention to make each Synergy
programme self-reliant. This is supported by a network of local mentors.
C hange the way the worker thinks about behaviours that challenge and offer practical strategies
based on ethical approaches. Focus on biased or harmful mind-sets, thereby developing selfawareness and reducing stress. This in turn will change harmful narratives and cultures aroundvulnerable individuals and relationships.
E ncourage a deeper understanding through skilled listening and reflection. To make ‘conscious’
good practice ‘unconscious’ through rehearsal, reflection and doing. Reductionist, punitive orunethical approaches that focus on ‘changing’ child behaviour are rejected.

How does Synergy work?

nnS ynergy seeks to develop ethical and practical strategies forchanging worker thinking, beliefs and behaviour. Instinctive, biased
or impulsive responses are replaced by those, which are rational,
calm and planned. In essence it is a philosophy for life.
S ynergy recognises the importance of being ‘present’ and listening.
Role models promote a positive culture, challenge unethical practice,harmful narratives and reduce stress.

The Synergy programme comprises
1. One 90 minute seminar to explain overall aims.
This can be to a whole school or organisation (optional)
2.	One six-hour intensive practice workshop deliveredby experienced mentors or the AT-Autism team (CPD)
3.	One six-hour mentor workshop delivered by experienced
mentors or the AT-Autism team (CPD)
4.	Mentor support by experienced mentors or the AT-Autism
team as requested.
5.	Further bespoke courses; are available and mentors haveaccess to the AT-Autism Synergy Mentor Network at all times.
There is an annual conference.

What is the theoreticalbasis of Synergy?

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More informationS ynergy has its roots in Greek philosophy:
Respect, tolerance, self-awareness and knowing one’s own limitations, allied toestablished psychological, physiological and sociological theory.
 sychological context:
PEmphasis on understanding self. Bias, false assumptions and narratives are examined
and challenged. Recognition of the importance of role-models in human services.
Empowerment through reflective practice, and developing agency – not merely‘giving advice’. Teaching skills for listening, planning and problem-solving.
Physiological context:
An understanding of stress mechanisms and how stress impacts our behaviour.
This includes strategies for stress reduction.
S ociological context:
Verstehen (deep understanding of the person and culture) involves the rejectionof superficial approaches that contribute to negative or harmful stereotypes,cultures and narratives which impact policies and relationships. Verstehen isimportant in developing empathy. Being in touch with the lived experience of theperson and their story.

There is an annual Synergy conference where all partners
are invited to attend and contribute. In addition annualSynergy practice seminars are organised locally.
Contact: info@atautism.org
Website: www.atautism.org