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Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity is the concept that when it comes to the human brain, people do not end up all the same. Everyone has different talents and strengths, and they find things 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

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.

Barnardo’s ND:well service  

Community Drop Ins for parents or young people to 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 people into their services where suitable or signpost to other services across the city that will best fit your needs. 

Craigmillar Library 101 Niddrie Mains Road, EH16 4DS. Monthly on Tuesdays from 10am to 1pm.  

  • 23rd September
  • 21st October
  • 18th November
  • 16th 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.  

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    

Neurostars 

A weekly support group for young people aged five to 16 years, who have a neurodivergent diagnosis or are in the process of diagnosis.  Young people can take part in a range of engaging activities, including messy play, arts and crafts and indoor and outdoor sports. Parents and carers can take some time for themselves in the adult group, connect with others and receive advice and information on a range of issues relevant to the group. Sessions run every Friday from 2pm to 3:30pm at

The Shed at Tynecastle Park
Wheatfield St
 EH11 2NZ

For more information visit the Big Hearts Community Trust website or contact 

neurostars@bighearts.org.uk 

0131 603 4926

 

Parent and Carer Peer Support Group 

Salvesen Mindroom’s group is for parents and carers of neurodivergent children or those with additional support needs. Each monthly online group will have a theme where parents and carers can share information, resources, and strategies which they have found helpful. Sessions run on the first Thursday of the month from 10.30am to 11.30am on Teams.

For more information and to sign up to a session contact

directhelp@mindroom.org

Parent and carer support group 

A free drop-in support group providing a safe, welcoming space for parents and carers of neurodivergent children to connect with others. Each session will focus on a theme allowing parents and carers to get to know one another, share challenges, ask questions and exchange knowledge. The group will run on Tuesdays from 10.30am to 12.30pm on the dates below.

  • What about us? – 4 November 2025
  • What about resources and services? – 11 November 2025
  • What about digital wellbeing? – 2 December 2025
  • What about me? – 10 December 2025
  • What about next steps? – 13 January 2026
  • Reflection and celebration – 27 January 2026 at 

Goodtrees Neighbourhood Centre
5 Mordunvale Place
EH17 7LB

For more information or to note interest in attending contact

Stef.robertson@crossreach.org.uk or morag.lang@edinburgh.gov.uk

Supporting parents and carers

We hope you can find the information you need, if you require help finding supports email us at

Support for mental health

The iThrive 91¸£ÀûÉç support directory can help you find support available for adults living and/or working in 91¸£ÀûÉç.