We are delighted to be able to announce the arrival of our newly commissioned services for neurodivergent children, young people and their families:
Choose Play – are providing neurodivergent friendly play sessions for the whole family that are accessible fun and sensory focussed. There are indoor and outdoor spaces for children and young people to play, as well as space for parents and carers to relax, have a hot drink and benefit from peer support.
EPIC – are offering webinars and individual sessions online for parents and carers of 5-12 year-olds with ADHD, ASD, DCD/DYSPRAXIA or FASD, or for those who are awaiting an assessment. The sessions will focus on attention, memory, planning, timing, organisation and regulation
Team United – are providing multi-sport camps during holiday periods for neurodivergent young people aged 10-15 years. This includes football, basketball, volleyball, badminton and more!
Salvesen Mindroom - are offering short-term confidential, 1:1 support through a blend of inperson and online working. Everyone’s needs are different, but you might want to: Reflect on the assessment process, Better understand your diagnosis (if one has been given), Explore what this might mean for you , Develop strategies and skills to support you in these areas. We can also help you develop skills to communicate your needs with others in your life and support you in doing so (if you wish).
Your child’s development is unique and may vary in comparison to other children. You may notice neurodevelopmental (ND) differences in your child that are observed at home and/ or in nursery/ school. These differences can be in the areas of communication, memory, relationships, balance and coordination, emotional well-being, play, learning, flexibility, attention or senses. Schools and organisations make adjustments with the aim of ensuring neurodiversity is celebrated and understood so that all children can feel included and progress. It is important to discuss concerns and share information with school professionals or other services that may be involved with your child. Sometimes, a request for a Neurodevelopmental (ND) assessment may be submitted after your discussion with professionals or you may decide to monitor your child’s development over time.
This guide provides you with information about how to access resources and supports for a child presenting with neurodevelopmental differences. This guide is divided into different stages (Before, During and After) a ND request for assistance is made. It shows what supports are available to all children and families regardless of any diagnosis.
Before – refers to you as a parent noticing ND differences in your child; or a family member, friend or professional mentioning these differences to you. You may decide to discuss this with a school professional and in some instances a GP, resulting in a request for a ND assessment through your child’s school.
During – refers to when education or health professionals submits a ND request for assistance to the Single Point of Access. If it is agreed that the request is appropriate, you will receive communication about gathering information and an appointment. During this period of waiting for an appointment, you can access this guide to identify appropriate resources and supports.
After – once the assessment process has been completed, you will be asked to attend a feedback meeting to discuss the outcomes of the assessment and if any diagnoses can be made. In a feedback meeting, a clinician will give you helpful information. This guide indicates that some resources are available only when a child has been diagnosed.
We understand that this can be an anxious time for children and their families. NHS Lothian has two online Wellbeing Hubs, for children under 11 and for older children aged 11+. There is information, short videos, and links to other specialist organisations and charities, with topics including feelings, moods and emotions, mental health, sleep, staying safe online, friendships, body image and much more.
Visit the Wellbeing Hub for children https://children.nhslothian.scot/children/wellbeing-hub/
Visit the Wellbeing Hub for young people https://children.nhslothian.scot/young-people/wellbeing-hub/
CAMHS Resources is a site designed for young people and families, bringing together mental health and wellbeing resources into one place, including downloads, recommended apps, books and videos. Find out more here https://www.camhs-resources.co.uk