Registered Manager appointed to oversee autism services in Presteigne by Orbis Education and Care

A key centre for autism education and care in Powys is set to benefit from the expertise of a long-standing specialist in associated behavioural and educational support.

Orbis Education and Care has appointed Matt Dobbs as the new Registered Manager of its centre at Summergil House near Presteigne.

The former Social Services Children’s Mentor will build on a long-standing career in the field as he moves from a long-term role at Orbis’ sister site in Powys, Ty Bronllys, to manage its larger Presteigne centre.

Matt, 31, said: “Staying relatable to the wider team at Summergil, in order to maintain a setting which is a happy and enjoyable place to live and work will be a major focus for me in this new role, as will maintaining our relationship with the surrounding community.

“Raising awareness and the presence of the children and young people within Orbis’ care, and supporting them to build their confidence, self-esteem and validity in feeling part of the local community is something I am also looking forward to building on further across the two sites.”

Matt brings a wealth of experience to the role, having worked across several behavioural and clinical positions for Orbis since he was first appointed to the company as a support worker a decade ago.

Since then Matt has accrued a breadth of expertise to support him in further strengthening the residential care and educational services on offer to learners aged 8-19 at Summergil House.

Set in 18 acres of countryside, the site offers those in its care the opportunity to explore woodland, open ground and outdoor play equipment, which is modern and relevant to their individual interests, among other things.

Matt said: “I have always enjoyed being part of the achievements and successes of our students and residents, helping them transition into adulthood, and supporting them to grow and develop through the years.

“Orbis has taught me that with the right approach and positivity anything is achievable. I love being part of a company that has such a fantastic ethos towards the well-being of young people and can’t wait to see what else is possible in moving out of the clinical team into this management role.”

Orbis Education and Care now runs 16 schools, residential homes and facilities for children and adults as the largest independent provider in Wales of support services for people with complex needs associated with autism, employing around 700 people.

Working around a ‘positive behaviour support’ service model, its primary aim is to provide a

safe and secure environment that encourages individuality, confidence, self-esteem and

lifelong learning, thus improving quality of life for all those children and adults in its care.

Orbis Education and Care is currently recruiting for various roles at Summergil House and across its other sites in Wales and England. For more information about the group and vacancies available visit: www.orbis-group.co.uk.