OUR MISSION

We elevate the voices of Neurodivergent people to help them flourish and thrive

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FREE CARE PLANNING TOOLS

Download our free interactive toolkit for a neurodiversity-affirming approach to care

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We believe in compassionate, person-centred care approaches for Neurodivergent people and people with learning disabilities.

Learn more about our campaign AGAINST PBS & ABA→

MEETUP GROUPS

Find your community

Explore our monthly online meet-up groups—spaces for Neurodivergent folk to connect and share experiences.

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TRAINING

We provide flexible, modular training solutions across a range of topics

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  • What I value most is that ND Connection fills a gap that statutory services simply can’t. They provide the kind of relational, neurodiversity‑affirming support that prevents escalation, reduces isolation, and helps young people stay connected... I recommend the ND Connection team because I trust them. I trust their approach, their values, and their ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people who deserve to be understood and supported—not just assessed or managed.

    — Jane Ferguson, Consultant Practitioner, HOPE(S) Team

  • The integration of extensive knowledge with the range of personal lived experience really made the difference...There was a great capacity to engage people in constructive dialogue, while challenging where necessary, within a neuro-affirming approach.

    — Clinical Lead, Trustwide Autism Team

  • Working with this team has transformed how we think about sensory needs. Hearing about sensory and communication needs directly from people who experience and understand it has altered how we work with the young people in our service.

    — CAMHS Inpatient Mental Health Team

  • As an autistic person I just want to commend the team for having lived experience so deeply ingrained into the training. It was so refreshing to see and made the content a lot more interesting and understandable.

    — Mental Health Professional, Autism Informed Training attendee

  • The resources created by this team are brilliant. They’re really useful and should be applied in schools as well as hospitals.

    — Children’s Occupational Therapist

  • Jill ensures that true co-production is at the heart of all projects and brings a unique energy to everything she does. Jill is innovative and never dogmatic, turns ‘problems’ into opportunities, and you can trust that what is agreed will be delivered.

    — Tom McGhie, Care and Treatment Review Programme Manager
    NHS England

  • I just wanted to let you know how impactful your report and your words in today’s meeting were. The work you are doing is giving a voice to autistic people who aren’t able to articulate their needs and it’s brilliant to see. I hope our paths cross again!

    —Josie Saville, Co-CEO, Lets for Life

  • One of the best training sessions I’ve attended. Thank you so much.

    — Attendee of “Introduction to Autism” Online Training

Our consultancy expertise

All our work→

OUR MISSION

We are here to support change that enables Autistic people to flourish.

We are here to elevate Autistic and other Neurodivergent voices. Our work is focused on sharing solutions, helping others understand, and promoting different ways of working.

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Our training curriculum

All training→

OUR WORK

We believe that Autism is a difference, not a disorder.

There’s a lack of understanding about the challenges that Autistic people face, and what needs to be done differently to ensure they can thrive. Our work aims to change that.

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NdC Journal

All articles→
NdC Journal
Locked in but moving forward: My journey with severe FND and Neurodivergence
Liam Virgo
Locked in but moving forward: My journey with severe FND and Neurodivergence
Liam Virgo

We are joined by Guest Contributor Liam Virgo, who shares his experience of developing severe Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) at the age of thirteen and the impact it has had on his life. In this blog, he reflects on the connection between FND and Neurodivergence, the challenges of navigating education with a disability, and the importance of resilience and hope.

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Liam Virgo
Autism, Neurodivergence, Wellbeing, Support and Inclusion — What’s New in October
Ann Memmott PgC MA
Autism, Neurodivergence, Wellbeing, Support and Inclusion — What’s New in October
Ann Memmott PgC MA

In this research roundup, Ann Memmott brings together recent October papers exploring Autism, Neurodivergence, communication, identity and everyday experiences. The studies examine empathy, body image, learning differences, social media, emotional wellbeing, sensory needs, food preferences and accessibility—highlighting the importance of understanding individual differences, challenging deficit-based assumptions, and listening to Neurodivergent people about what works for them.

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Ann Memmott PgC MA
4Q4: Autism and sexual violence: Understanding victim-blaming towards Autistic victim-survivors
Zoe Collier
4Q4: Autism and sexual violence: Understanding victim-blaming towards Autistic victim-survivors
Zoe Collier

In this edition of 4Q4 (Four Questions For), we speak with Zoe Collier, a PhD student at Durham University researching victim-blaming towards autistic people following sexual violence. Her research explores how autism stigma influences and shapes autistic victim-survivors’ experiences of victim-blaming, helping to further our understanding of the experiences of autistic victim-survivors when seeking criminal justice.

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Zoe Collier
Autism, ADHD, Women, Language and Education — What’s New in September
Ann Memmott PgC MA
Autism, ADHD, Women, Language and Education — What’s New in September
Ann Memmott PgC MA

In this research roundup, Ann Memmott brings together recent research and resources exploring topics such as women’s lived experiences of ADHD, menstruation, menopause, quality of life, Autistic communication, health inequalities, and inclusive education.

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Ann Memmott PgC MA
The proposed SEND reform: to what extent does it make for a neuroaffirming school environment?
Lucy Gilbert
The proposed SEND reform: to what extent does it make for a neuroaffirming school environment?
Lucy Gilbert

We are joined by Neurodiverse Connection Associate Lucy Gilbert, who explores the Government’s proposed SEND reforms and what they could mean for Neurodivergent young people. In this blog they consider the gap between the ambitions of reform and the reality of creating genuinely neuroaffirming, inclusive school environments.

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Lucy Gilbert
Autism, ADHD, Neurodivergence, Diagnosis and Support — What’s New in August
Ann Memmott PgC MA
Autism, ADHD, Neurodivergence, Diagnosis and Support — What’s New in August
Ann Memmott PgC MA

In this research roundup, Ann Memmott brings together recent August papers exploring Autism, ADHD and Neurodivergence. The studies examine diagnosis and underdiagnosis, self-identification, quality of life, sensory needs, accessibility, the experiences of underrepresented groups, and ethical questions around support and interventions—highlighting the importance of listening to Neurodivergent people, respecting their autonomy, and creating environments where they can participate and thrive.

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Ann Memmott PgC MA
Autism, Neurodivergence, Lived Experience, Health and Inclusion — What’s New in July
Ann Memmott PgC MA
Autism, Neurodivergence, Lived Experience, Health and Inclusion — What’s New in July
Ann Memmott PgC MA

This month's research roundup from Ann Memmott highlights a diverse collection of new studies and resources exploring Neurodivergence across health, communication, support, and lived experience. Topics include Neurodivergent-friendly counselling, positive emotions in Autism research, synaesthesia, semi-speaking communication, sensory needs, health inequalities, Autistic perspectives on interventions, aging, creativity, and ethical questions in research involving Autistic young people.

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Ann Memmott PgC MA
Permission to Try: Celebrating the Legacy of the Culture of Care Programme
Molly Anderton
Permission to Try: Celebrating the Legacy of the Culture of Care Programme
Molly Anderton

In this blog, Molly Anderton reflects on her journey as a Lived Experience Advisor on the Culture of Care Programme, exploring the challenges, emotions and achievements that shaped the programme’s impact. She shares how teams moved from uncertainty and fear of change towards greater confidence, connection and courage to create meaningful improvements in care.

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Molly Anderton
Creativity, Collaboration and Connection
Antonia Aluko
Creativity, Collaboration and Connection
Antonia Aluko

Reflecting on their experience as a Neurodivergent Lived Experience Advisor on the Culture of Care Programme, Antonia Aluko shares how bringing lived experience into a professional role transformed her confidence, fostered connection, and reinforced the power of lived experience to drive meaningful change. 

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Antonia Aluko

OUR VISION

We want to create positive change in society, not just in hospitals.

We recognise that opportunities for creation, connection, fulfilment and purpose help Neurodivergent people live happy, healthy and meaningful lives in the wider community.

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Resource library

All resources→
Resources Library
Understanding meltdown and shutdown
Ndc Original, Original, Nervous System, Sensory Processing, Regulation, Meltdown, Shutdown
Understanding meltdown and shutdown
Ndc Original, Original, Nervous System, Sensory Processing, Regulation, Meltdown, Shutdown
£0.00

Neurodiversity-affirming prompt sheet

© Neurodiverse Connection 2026 All Rights Reserved

PDF Version

This resource looks at meltdowns and shutdowns as natural responses to exceeding a person’s window of tolerance. It introduces the underlying nervous system states involved and offers guidance on recognising, responding to and reducing overwhelm through supportive and accommodating environments.

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Ndc Original, Original, Nervous System, Sensory Processing, Regulation, Meltdown, Shutdown
Autistic burnout
Ndc Original, Original, Neurodiversity-affirming, Burnout
Autistic burnout
Ndc Original, Original, Neurodiversity-affirming, Burnout
£0.00

Neurodiversity-affirming guide

© Neurodiverse Connection 2026 All Rights Reserved

PDF Version

This resource focuses on Autistic burnout, a state of profound exhaustion linked to sustained sensory, social and cognitive demands and the impact of masking. It provides guidance on recognising burnout and shares supportive, low-demand approaches that prioritise regulation, autonomy and wellbeing.

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Ndc Original, Original, Neurodiversity-affirming, Burnout
Trauma responses in Autistic people
Ndc Original, Original, Neurodiversity-affirming, Trauma
Trauma responses in Autistic people
Ndc Original, Original, Neurodiversity-affirming, Trauma
£0.00

Neurodiversity-affirming guide

© Neurodiverse Connection 2026 All Rights Reserved

PDF Version

This resource explores how trauma responses may present in Autistic people and why they can differ from common neurotypical interpretations. It introduces the fight, flight, freeze and fawn responses through a neurodiversity-affirming lens, and offers guidance and practical strategies for recognising these responses and creating supportive, safe environments that reduce harm and support regulation and recovery.

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Ndc Original, Original, Neurodiversity-affirming, Trauma
Monotropism
Ndc Original, Original, Monotropism, Neurodiversity-affirming
Monotropism
Ndc Original, Original, Monotropism, Neurodiversity-affirming
£0.00

Neurodiversity-affirming guide

© Neurodiverse Connection 2026 All Rights Reserved

PDF Version

This resource introduces monotropism, a neurodiversity-affirming theory that explains how attention is organised around a small number of deeply engaging interests, often leading to intense focus and flow states. It explores the strengths associated with this cognitive style, the challenges that can arise with task-switching or interruptions, and practical ways to create supportive learning and working environments that respect interest-based attention and reduce overwhelm.

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Ndc Original, Original, Monotropism, Neurodiversity-affirming
A practical approach to neurodiversity-affirming care and support
ABA, PBS, Therapeutic Approaches, Autistic SPACE Framework, Care, templates, Safeguarding, Safety Plan, Care Plan
A practical approach to neurodiversity-affirming care and support
ABA, PBS, Therapeutic Approaches, Autistic SPACE Framework, Care, templates, Safeguarding, Safety Plan, Care Plan
£0.00

INTERACTIVE TOOLKIT

© Neurodiverse Connection 2026 All Rights Reserved

Download PDF

This toolkit has been developed by Neurodiverse Connection to support our practical approach to neurodiversity-affirming care and support across health, education, and social care. The foundation of this toolkit is the Autistic SPACE Framework – a person-centred care approach developed by Dr Mary Doherty, Dr Sue McCowan and Dr Sebastian CK Shaw – which we build on by integrating a stronger emphasis on emotional safety, sensory support, relational trust, embodied understanding and human rights. We believe that compassionate, relational and context-aware approaches are a more ethical and effective alternative to behaviourist models that prioritise compliance over wellbeing.

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ABA, PBS, Therapeutic Approaches, Autistic SPACE Framework, Care, templates, Safeguarding, Safety Plan, Care Plan
Language
Ndc Original, Original, Language, Identity, Neurodiversity-affirming, Labels
Language
Ndc Original, Original, Language, Identity, Neurodiversity-affirming, Labels
£0.00

Neurodiversity-affirming guide

© Neurodiverse Connection 2026 All Rights Reserved

Updated February 2026

PDF Version

This resource offers a clear, neurodiversity-affirming guide to language rooted in the Neurodiversity Paradigm and the Social Model of Disability. It defines key concepts and explains why language shapes dignity, inclusion, and autonomy. Through practical terminology shifts and accessible explanations, it supports individuals and organisations to move away from deficit-based framing toward respectful, community-led communication.

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Ndc Original, Original, Language, Identity, Neurodiversity-affirming, Labels
Co-escalation and co-regulation
Ndc Original, Nervous System, Employment, Sensory Processing, Regulation
Co-escalation and co-regulation
Ndc Original, Nervous System, Employment, Sensory Processing, Regulation
£0.00

Neurodiversity-affirming guide

© Neurodiverse Connection 2026 All Rights Reserved

PDF Version

This resource offers a clear, neurodiversity-affirming introduction to the dynamics of co-escalation and co-regulation, explaining how nervous system states influence our interactions and emotional safety. It outlines the window of tolerance, signs of dysregulation, and the importance of self-regulation — especially in roles where power dynamics or caregiving responsibilities are present. It provides practical, somatic techniques and workplace prompts to support calmer, safer, more connected relational environments.

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Ndc Original, Nervous System, Employment, Sensory Processing, Regulation
Supporting nervous system regulation in the workplace
Ndc Original, Original, Nervous System, Employment, Sensory Processing, Regulation
Supporting nervous system regulation in the workplace
Ndc Original, Original, Nervous System, Employment, Sensory Processing, Regulation
£0.00

Neurodiversity-affirming guide

© Neurodiverse Connection 2026 All Rights Reserved

PDF Version

This resource explores how nervous system regulation underpins safety, communication, and well-being at work. It introduces the window of tolerance and the four stress responses, and supports staff to identify their own patterns, recognise dysregulation, and use practical somatic strategies to return to regulation. It also outlines moment-to-moment regulation prompts and workplace practices that nurture a culture of co-regulation, well-being, and reduced risk across teams.

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Ndc Original, Original, Nervous System, Employment, Sensory Processing, Regulation
Understanding boundaries
Ndc Original, Original, Boundaries, Communication
Understanding boundaries
Ndc Original, Original, Boundaries, Communication
£0.00

Neurodiversity-affirming guide

© Neurodiverse Connection 2025 All Rights Reserved

PDF Version

This resource provides a neurodiversity-affirming guide to understanding boundaries, recognising the unique challenges and strengths that can come with Neurodivergent experiences. While it centres Neurodivergent perspectives, the insights and suggestions may apply to a broader audience.

Additionally, it acknowledges the complexities of boundary setting, particularly for those in lived experience roles, where the personal and professional identities intersect and identifying and maintaining boundaries can be harder. Setting boundaries in these roles can be especially challenging due to the deep emotional connection to the work, a strong desire to support others, and the possibility of sharing and encountering experiences that resonate on a personal or emotional level. This resource aims to offer supportive strategies that reflect those realities.

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Ndc Original, Original, Boundaries, Communication
Guide to PBS and ABA for professionals, parents and caregivers
Ndc Original, Original, ABA, PBS, Behaviour, Therapeutic Approaches, Autism-Informed Care
Guide to PBS and ABA for professionals, parents and caregivers
Ndc Original, Original, ABA, PBS, Behaviour, Therapeutic Approaches, Autism-Informed Care
£0.00

© Neurodiverse Connection 2025 All Rights Reserved

PDF Version

As professionals, parents and caregivers we want to provide the best care and support for Neurodivergent children and adults. Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) are often presented as effective interventions, so it is crucial to understand the concerns raised by many Neurodivergent individuals, advocates, and researchers. This guide highlights why these methods are problematic and explores compassionate and neurodiversity-affirming alternatives that align with best practices.

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Ndc Original, Original, ABA, PBS, Behaviour, Therapeutic Approaches, Autism-Informed Care
Self-identification and Neurodivergence
Ndc Original, Original, Identity, Neurodiversity-Affirming, Affirming, Neurodiversity-Affirmative, Self Diagnosed, Self-Identification
Self-identification and Neurodivergence
Ndc Original, Original, Identity, Neurodiversity-Affirming, Affirming, Neurodiversity-Affirmative, Self Diagnosed, Self-Identification
£0.00

© Neurodiverse Connection 2024 All Rights Reserved

PDF Version

Self-identifying as neurodivergent can be confusing, especially when you're just starting to learn about yourself and face mixed messages. This guide explains what self-identification means, why people choose to self-identify, and answers common questions to help make the process clearer.

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Ndc Original, Original, Identity, Neurodiversity-Affirming, Affirming, Neurodiversity-Affirmative, Self Diagnosed, Self-Identification
Neurodiversity: An introduction
Ndc Original, Original, Identity, Neurodiversity-Affirming, Affirming, Neurodiversity-Affirmative
Neurodiversity: An introduction
Ndc Original, Original, Identity, Neurodiversity-Affirming, Affirming, Neurodiversity-Affirmative
£0.00

© Neurodiverse Connection 2024 All Rights Reserved

PDF Version

This resource introduces the concept of neurodiversity, tracing its origins within the Autistic community and its development into the Neurodiversity Paradigm. It defines key terms such as Neurodivergent and neurotypical, emphasising that differences in neurocognitive functioning are natural variations rather than deficits. By contrasting this paradigm with the medical model of disability, it highlights a shift toward valuing diversity, challenging notions of “normal,” and advocating for more inclusive, person-centred approaches to support.

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Ndc Original, Original, Identity, Neurodiversity-Affirming, Affirming, Neurodiversity-Affirmative