What we’re working on
NEURODIVERSITY TRANSFORMATION PROJECT
What do we mean by neurodiversity?
The following are common definitions, but the way the terms are used may vary between different groups.
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The concept of natural variations in the way that our brains work – something to be embraced, and celebrated
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Used to refer to brain types that function and process information in the way that society expects.
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Used to refer to brain types that think differently, or process information or interact with the world differently.
‘Neurodivergent’ is regularly used to refer to autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, dyspraxia and dyscalculia.
Overview
The Neurodiversity Transformation Project (NTP) was borne out of the changes made by the Health sector across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG) to the Paediatric and Autism Assessment Criteria in May 2023.
The three Parent Carer Forums across BNSSG (including SGPC) together gathered the views and concerns from families in our communities on this subject and fed these back to the Integrated Care Board (ICB). Eventually, these changes were reversed in April 2023, and it was realised by the ICB that the entire system needed to be reviewed. This is where the project began.
Who is leading the project?
Led by the ICB.
Co-chaired by the three parent carer forums across BNSSG.
Involves the three local authorities, professionals across the Health, Education, Social Care and voluntary sectors, and the voices of parent carers and children and young people.
Project goals
To gather vital information from the views and lived experiences of children and young people, parent carers, and system partners.
To inform a successful support system for children and young people with neurodiverse needs, based on the information gathered.
What the ICB said about one of the parent carer engagement events we held as part of the project:
“Thank you so much for everything you’ve done – and for pushing us to make this work as good as it could be.
It was brilliant to have our LA colleagues there alongside us.”
See below for the latest project updates,
as well as ways you can get involved.
