School Pilot Program to Identify Neurodivergent Needs

A pilot scheme will enable schools to assist families in identifying children with neurodivergent needs, such as autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This six-month initiative will see 42 schools in Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire provide support for children’s needs while they await formal assessments. Sirona Care & Health, which operates the area’s autism assessment service, will be responsible for managing the scheme. Vicki Bates, from Sirona, stated, “We know that many parent carers struggle to get the right help for their neurodivergent child, and we’re committed to addressing that.” The three local parent carer forums for Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire have been significantly involved in the development of this pilot. Rachel Trueman, chief executive officer of South Gloucestershire Parent Carers, commented, “Many families find it hard to navigate the health and education system, or to know who to talk to when they have concerns that their child may be neurodivergent.” The pilot incorporates a neurodiversity profiling tool, which schools will utilize to gain an earlier understanding of children’s needs. A neurodiversity support team at Sirona will train professionals in schools and nurseries on how to complete this profiling tool, subsequently offering advice on available guidance and support beneficial for the child or young person. Donna Harris, assistant principal at Heron’s Moor Academy in Weston-super-Mare, noted that the new approach is expected to identify children’s needs “at a much earlier stage.” She added, “It is early days but the initial response from families has been positive and we’re looking forward to seeing how it will work in practice over the coming months.” This pilot program is part of a broader Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire neurodiversity transformation programme. This larger initiative was launched in 2023 and is jointly led by the NHS Integrated Care Board and the three local Parent Carer Forums. For further information, BBC Bristol can be followed on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Details regarding its approach to external linking are available.