“A resounding success” is how the recent ‘Neurocafé’ held at Downpatrick’s South Eastern Regional College (SERC) has been described by the Downe Hospital’s Senior Social Work Practitioner Niall Rotherham.
Hosted by the Children and Young People’s Strategic Partnership (CYPSP) Down Locality Planning Group, Niall explained how the idea of the Neurocafé is to create a “welcoming space” that supports those living with neurodiverse conditions, a chance for parents and carers to connect, “shares their experiences” and access support from community and statutory organisations.
“This is an event for parents and carers of children with Autism, ADHD and those awaiting assessments as well,” said Niall. “The Café has been a great partnership approach as we have had different organisations from the community, voluntary and statutory sector coming together to show what our parents and carers can access for their children and young people.”
Service user Ryan Robinson described how much he benefits from attending the ‘Neurodivergent (ND)1’ peer network support group. “This is a group for neurodivergent people ran by the Trust. I’ve met friends, I’ve met a lot of new people and groups such as the NOW as well as groups who offer mental health support and employment support.”
Service User Quinn Reilly added, “This is a great social opportunity and with ND1 we go on trips and do arts and crafts. It’s a great thing to be a part of.
Quinn described how important it is to spread awareness for parents with children, “who are neurodivergent” for them to know and see that they are not alone.
Niall shared how important it is to promote neurodivergence, “Its strengths, the positives around it and also helping parents and carers to link in with key services and supports.”
“Sometimes it is hard to know what services, what support is out there but with the Café we are all under one roof. There is a greater understanding around neurodivergence. It is important that we have these events and link people into vital services.”