Neurodiversity support
Support Networks for Neurodivergent Adults and Children in the UK
- National Charities & Organizations
Organization | Focus |
National Autistic Society (NAS) | Leading charity for autistic people and families. Offers helplines, resources, and advocacy. https://www.autism.org.uk |
ADHD Foundation | Support, training, resources, and events for individuals with ADHD. https://www.adhdfoundation.org.uk |
British Dyslexia Association | Offers assessments, training, and resources for dyslexia. https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/ |
Dyspraxia Foundation | Support, advice, and events for those with dyspraxia (DCD). https://dyspraxiafoundation.org.uk |
Tourette’s Action | Support for individuals with Tourette syndrome. https://www.tourettes-action.org.uk |
SCOPE | Disability equality charity supporting disabled children and adults, including neurodivergent individuals. https://www.scope.org.uk |
- Local Support Groups
- Local Authorities (Council-run Services): Many councils provide Local Offer websites that list services for children and young people with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities).
- SENDIASS: Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Information, Advice, and Support Service – free, confidential advice to parents, carers, and young people.
- Parent Carer Forums: Local groups that offer peer support and representation in local decision-making.
- Autism or ADHD Support Groups: Many regions have local parent-run or charity-led support groups.
- Educational Support
- Educational Health and Care Plans (EHCPs): For children with significant needs to access tailored educational support.
- Ambitious about Autism: Specifically focused on education, employment, and participation for autistic people. https://www.ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk
- Mental Health & Wellbeing
- Mind – Offers mental health support, including for neurodivergent people. https://www.mind.org.uk
- YoungMinds – Focuses on children’s mental health. https://www.youngminds.org.uk
- Employment & Workplace Support
- Access to Work (DWP): Government scheme providing practical and financial support for disabled/neurodivergent people in employment.
- Employers’ Network for Equality & Inclusion (enei): Resources for inclusive workplaces.
- Exceptional Individuals: Specialist support for neurodivergent individuals seeking employment. https://exceptionalindividuals.com
- Online Communities & Peer Support
- Neurodiverse UK Facebook Groups – Peer support for various conditions.
- The Neurodivergent Labour Movement – Advocacy for neurodivergent people in the workplace.
- Reddit Communities – Subreddits like r/AutismUK or r/ADHD_UK.
- Advocacy & Legal Support
- IPSEA (Independent Provider of Special Education Advice): Legal advice for children with SEND. https://www.ipsea.org.uk
- Contact (For Families with Disabled Children): https://contact.org.uk