A new online hub has been created where neurodivergent people living in Kent and Medway can find information and links to local and national support.
Focusing on learning disability, autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the hub is split into sections for adults, children and young people, making it easy to navigate.
Marie Hackshall, System Lead for Learning Disability, Autism and ADHD in Kent and Medway, said: “There has been a huge rise in the demand for autism and ADHD services over the last couple of years and we know people are waiting too long for assessments.
“This hub is the first step in a new model of providing support for neurodivergent people, whether they have a diagnosis or not. We’ve been working with people with lived experience to create the model and one of the things they told us they wanted was better information about available support. There is a lot out there but finding the right information can be challenging so our aim is to bring as much as possible into one place.”
As well as links to local support groups, the hub features advice on everyday life – including sensory differences and sleep – education, employment and volunteering, and keeping safe and well. There is also a section on Right to Choose which answers frequently asked questions.
Parents and carers can also access advice on the support available in all schools, as well as new projects that are being trialled to offer support to neurodivergent children. These include ‘This is Me’, a tool that looks at a child’s strengths and needs; and PINS (Partnerships for Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Schools), which helps schools to improve the experience of neurodivergent children so they feel welcomed, supported and able to take part in all aspects of school life.
There is also extensive information on the Dynamic Support Approach which involves health and social care services working closely together to support people who are autistic or have a learning disability.
The hub will continue to develop over time as users can submit resources to be considered for inclusion.
Visit the new support hub at www.NDKentAndMedway.co.uk
