Neurodiversity is the concept that when it comes to the human brain, people do not end up all the same. Everyone has different talents, strengths and things that they find difficult. Neurodiversity is not always visible or labelled. While some neurodivergent people will have a diagnosis such as Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), autism, Tourette syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FASD), dyslexia or dyspraxia, many will not. Neurodiversity causes differences in individuals’ experiences and behaviours. For more information on Neurodiversity visit the NHS Lothian Royal Hospital for Children and Young People website.
Information and support for parents of neurodivergent children
A helpful list of resources and services collated by NHS Lothian for families who are awaiting or have received a neurodevelopmental assessment. It includes links to helpful websites, as well as some brief strategies and techniques which may be useful.
Information and supports for parents of neurodivergent children.docx (nhslothian.scot)
Barnardo’s ND:well service
This service is part of a network of community mental health services which runs as part of a partnership with Tailor Ed and Number 6. It’s the first port of call for neurodivergent children and young people or their parents, looking for support with their mental health and wellbeing.
The service is for children and young people aged between five to 24 years old and/or their parents, who live in the City of Edinburgh and are neurodivergent. This includes children and young people with a diagnosis of autism, ADHD and intellectual disability. At the Community Drop Ins parents or young people can access a sounding board and listening ear from a skilled and experienced support worker. They can provide access to information, resources and guidance as needed. They can also refer you to their services where suitable or signpost you to other services across the city that will best fit your needs.
Community Drop Ins run at Craigmillar Library 101 Niddrie Mains Road, EH16 4DS. Monthly on Tuesdays from 10am to 1pm.
- 12 November
- 10 December
Barnardos, 111 Oxgangs Road North, EH14 1ED. Weekly on Mondays from 1pm to 3pm.
Silverknowes Golf Club, 118 Silverknowes Road, EH4 5ET. Wednesdays from 9am to 12pm.
Dean Park Primary, 31 Marchbank Gardens, Balerno, EH14 7ET. Monthly on Tuesdays.
To book a slot at one of the Community Drop-In sessions add 'DROP IN' to the subject line of an email to NDwell@barnardos.org.uk
For more information visit the ND:well website.
Parent and carer support group
Seven fortnightly free drop-in sessions for parents/carers whose children have neurodivergent conditions. No diagnosis required. The support group provides a safe place for parents and carers to meet others, share your challenges, questions, and knowledge. Each session will cover a particular theme. Refreshments will be provided and will include a gentle wellbeing walk together at the end of each session offering more time to talk and share. Sessions will run from 9:30am to 12pm at
Goodtrees Neighbourhood Centre
5 Mordunvale Place
EH17 7LB
Sessions will cover the following themes
- 24 October - What about challenges?
- 7 November - What about me?
- 21 November - What about services?
- 5 December - What about next steps?
For more information or note interest to attend email
Stef.Robertson@crossreach.org.uk or
Family group
A group for neurodivergent children, young people aged five to 16 years and their parents and carers. Providing an opportunity for parents and carers to meet, and access peer support and information, while children and young people access activities run by staff and volunteers. Siblings are welcome. Little ones need to be supervised by parents/carers. Parents/carers are welcome to attend with or without their child/teenager. This initiative runs in partnership between Big Hearts and the City of Edinburgh Lifelong Learning team
The group runs on Fridays from 2pm to 3.30pm at
Big Hearts
Tynecastle Park
Wheatfield St
EH11 2NZ
For further information email