Supports and Resources
Your Guide to Neurodiversity Support and Information
This page is designed to help you access a wide range of information, supports and resources tailored to common needs of neurodivergent individuals and their families.
You do not need a formal diagnosis to access information and support. Some of the services below have wait lists and may not be available for immediate access.
We’ll continue to update this page with new tools, information, resources, and support options.
Last update: March 2026.
Find Resources in Your Area
Local authorities across Lothian have their own dedicated webpages with supports, news and events. Check out the links below to find out more about supports and resources close to home.
Finding the right resources
We’ve cross‑referenced our resources, which means you might see them appear in several categories if they’re useful in more than one place. Select a category to open it. You’ll then see the relevant resources, including links and contact details when provided.
Resources to Support Everyday Skills and Wellbeing
Information in this section is organised by the areas where extra support may be needed.
Behaviour and Relationship Resources
Helpful Organisations and Services
Parent Club – Behaviour
Created by Scottish Government, this resource includes support for parents and carers. Resources are broken down by age and with topics on building positive relationships, avoiding tantrums, coping with parenting and making life easier at home.
The Challenging Behaviour Foundation
This charity focuses on needs of children and young people with severe learning disabilities and provides guidance around challenging behaviour, including rights, cost of living support and more.
VOCAL (Voice of Carers Across Lothian)
Organisation that supports and empowers unpaid carers in Edinburgh and Midlothian through individual support, information, training and access to services.
NHS Lothian Health Visiting: Behaviour and Parenting
Provides links to resources around dealing with challenging behaviours and the National Parenting Strategy.
Barnardos
UK children’s charity providing specialist services to support children, young people, carers, parents and families looking for support and information around mental health, wellbeing, the care system, cost of living, disabilities and more.
Videos
Click the arrow next to the video title to see the video or link to videos.
Video Resources for Parents & Carers: Video library for parents and carers to support children experiencing depression, low mood, anxiety, and overall behaviour.
Follow this link to access videos and resources.
Guides, Toolkits and Learning Pathways
Attention and Concentration: Supporting a Child with ADHD
Online programme designed for parents, carers and guardians of children aged 6 to 12 years of age to understand concentration, attention, and anxiety.
Passcode: Scotland2020
Parent Toolkit – Ambitious about Autism
From the autism assessment process to the first day of school, this toolkit is packed with practical tips and checklists to support parents during the earliest years of their child’s life. It also provides signposts to sources of support or additional information.
Dyslexia Masterclass for Parents
Developed by Dyslexia Scotland, this 90 minute course provides information for parents and carers of a child with dyslexia .
Togetherness
Provides a variety of evidence-based online courses on parenting and development for parents, carers, grandparents, teens and professionals.
Use access code TARTAN to register for free online courses.
Embracing Difference
A six-session recorded group for parents of primary aged children who are neurodivergent or present with developmental divergence.
The Embracing Difference flyerprovides more information
Place2Be Parenting Smart Resources
Collection of parenting advice from child mental health experts with practical tips to support children’s wellbeing and behaviour.
Sleep Resources
Helpful Organisations and Services
NHS Lothian Health Visiting: Sleep Resources
Provides links to support resources from Sleep Action and NHS Scotland that apply to a range of ages and common concerns like bedwetting, night terrors, eczema, head banging and more.
Sleep Action
This charity supports children and young people living in Scotland who are struggling to sleep by focusing on building healthy sleep habits and behaviours that last a lifetime. They have a line to offer one-to-one support along with resources for a variety of ages and stages.
Guides, Toolkits and Learning Pathways
Togetherness
Provides a variety of evidence-based online courses on parenting and development for parents, carers, grandparents, teens and professionals.
Use access code TARTAN to register for free online courses.
Embracing Difference
A six-session recorded group for parents of primary aged children who are neurodivergent or present with developmental divergence.
The Embracing Difference flyerprovides more information
Toileting and Continence Resources
Helpful Organisations and Services
NHS Lothian Health Visiting: Toileting and Continence Resources
Provides links to resources from ERIC and Bladder and Bowel UK, and NHS. The resources apply to common concerns around toileting, such as sensory needs, bedwetting, toilet anxiety, constipation, nappy rash, withholding and more.
ERIC – The Children’s Bowel and Bladder Charity
ERIC is the national charity dedicated to improving children’s bowel and bladder health, which offers a free helpline and a variety of resources around toileting, potty training, bedwetting, and many other challenges family face.
Helpline: 0808 801 0343
General Information and Supports
This section brings together a wide range of supports that aren’t tied to a specific condition, need or group, making it a useful starting point for anyone looking for reliable information or help.
General Neurodiversity Resources
Helpful Organisations and Services
Family Advice Information Resource (FAIR)
Free information and advice for people with learning disabilities and carers in Edinburgh.
IntoWork
A specialised employment support service for disabled jobseekers across Edinburgh and the Lothians. To be eligible the young person must be aged 16 and above.
Mindroom
Offers information and support to parents, carers, families, children and young people, including transition guidance and support groups.
Contact Details
Email: directhelp@mindroom.org
NAIT (National Autism Implementation Team)
Provides resources for professionals to ensure neurodivergent individuals are supported, respected, and empowered at every stage of life.
Kindred
Provides parents of children with complex needs to have early access to peer-led advocacy, support and information.
Salvesen Mindroom Research Centre
Their website provides details of their projects and resources for neurodiverse people and their families.
Social Security Scotland
Information on financial support and how to apply for families, unpaid carers, disabled people, young people and more.
NHS Speech and Language Therapy – Ages 0-18
Provides service information, general advice, additional resources, and guidance on when and how to access the service.
Enquire
A Scottish advice service for additional support for learning. Providing easy to understand advice and information about additional support for learning legislation and guidance for families and professionals.
NHS Child Development: Concerns About My Child
This webpage explains where to go if you’re worried about your child’s development and local resources.
Beat Eating Disorders
Provides support to people affected by eating disorders through our helpline, online support services and information.
Helpline: 0808 801 0432
FASD Collaborative Project
Provides free webinars, support groups, and online training to support the needs of all individuals who are neurodiverse.
Barnardos
UK children’s charity providing specialist services to support children, young people, carers, parents and families looking for support and information around mental health, wellbeing, the care system, cost of living, disabilities and more.
Videos
Click the arrow next to the video title to see the video.
Can you make it to the end?: A video that demonstrates how sensory overload feels.
Make It Happen: A video explaining and demonstrating the strategy ‘Make It Happen’ aimed at helping children trust timetables.
When someone is unsure what to expect in a situation, if the haven’t learned the skills needed or if they have had unhelpful previous experiences, they may be unsure or unwilling to take part in an activity. The link to the video below explains some ways to support and encourage children and young people to participation in day to day activities.
Video Resources for Parents & Carers: Video library for parents and carers to support children experiencing depression, low mood, anxiety, and overall behaviour.
Follow this link to access videos and resources.
Guides, Toolkits and Learning Pathways
Understanding the Strengths
and Difficulties of Neurodivergent Children: A Guide for Parents
A resource for from EPIC to help parents and carers learn more about strategies for developing skills and managing
difficulties.
Togetherness
Provides a variety of evidence-based online courses on parenting and development for parents, carers, grandparents, teens and professionals.
Use access code TARTAN to register for free online courses.
Embracing Difference
A six-session recorded group for parents of primary aged children who are neurodivergent or present with developmental divergence.
The Embracing Difference flyerprovides more information
Place2Be Parenting Smart Resources
Collection of parenting advice from child mental health experts with practical tips to support children’s wellbeing and behaviour.
Support and Crisis Lines
If you, or someone you are with is in immediate danger, call 999.
Children First Support Line
Provides emotional, practical and financial help for families, whether concerned about paying family bills, baby milestones, toddler tantrums, bullying, exam stress or mental health.
Parent to Parent Emotional Support Helpline
Provided by the National Autistic Society, this helpline offer emotional support to parents and carers regarding their autistic child. The service is provided by trained volunteers with personal experience as the parent of an autistic child or adult.
Young Minds Parents Helpline
They offer tailored information, advice and support to parents and carers who are concerned about their child or young person’s mental health (under 25). They offer support over the phone, or online chat.
Contact Details
Phone: 0808 802 5544
Child Autism UK Helpline
This helpline offers guidance, information and practical support across a wide range of areas related to autism and neurodiversity whether you’re just starting your journey or navigating complex systems.
Contact Details
Phone: 01344 882248
Scottish Sleep Support Line
Offer individual one-to-one advice and support regarding any child or young person living in Scotland, aged 18 months to 18 years, to their parents and carers, or young people themselves.
Contact Details
Complete their online form or email at : sleepsupport@sleepaction.org.
Scottish Autism Advice Line
Community advisors provide emotional and practical support for autistic people, their family members, loved ones, friends and professionals.
Contact Details
Phone: 01259 222 022
Beat Eating Disorders
Provides support to people affected by eating disorders through our helpline, online support services and information.
Helpline: 0808 801 0432
Resources Tailored to Specific Groups
This section brings together resources designed for specific groups of people to provide tailored information, services and guidance to help meet their unique needs and experiences.
Neurodiversity in Women and Girls Resources
Helpful Organisations and Services
SWAN
An autistic-led charity delivering services, information and support for and by autistic women, girls and non-binary people across Scotland.
Autistic Girls Network
Offers education, support and resources on a variety of topics with a focus on girls, women, and LGBTQ+ individuals.
National Autistic Society: Autistic Women and Girls
The page explains how autism is often under‑recognised in women and girls, outlining why diagnoses are frequently missed, how autistic traits may present differently, and the impact of masking and stereotypes.
Guides, Toolkits and Learning Pathways
Girls and Autism: Flying Under the Radar
This guide highlights key challenges faced by autistic girls and offers practical school‑based strategies. It also brings together insights from families, professionals, and academic research.
Age‑Specific Information and Supports
Information in this section is organised by age and developmental stage to help you find the most relevant support for children, young people, or adults.
Early Years (0-5) Resources and Supports
Helpful Organisations and Services
NHS Speech and Language Therapy – Ages 0-18
Provides service information, general advice, additional resources, and guidance on when and how to access the service.
NHS Child Development: Concerns About My Child
This webpage explains where to go if you’re worried about your child’s development and local resources.
NHS Health Visiting: Toileting and Continence Resources
Provides links to resources from ERIC and Bladder and Bowel UK, and NHS. The resources apply to common concerns around toileting, such as sensory needs, bedwetting, toilet anxiety, constipation, nappy rash, withholding and more.
ERIC – The Children’s Bowel and Bladder Charity
ERIC is the national charity dedicated to improving children’s bowel and bladder health, which offers a free helpline and a variety of resources around toileting, potty training, bedwetting, and many other challenges family face.
Helpline: 0808 801 0343
NHS Health Visiting: Sleep Resources
Provides links to support resources from Sleep Action and NHS Scotland that apply to a range of ages and common concerns like bedwetting, night terrors, eczema, head banging and more.
Sleep Action
Supports children and young people living in Scotland who are struggling to sleep by focusing on building healthy sleep habits and behaviours that last a lifetime. They have a line to offer one-to-one support along with resources for a variety of ages and stages.
NHS Health Visiting: Behaviour and Parenting
Provides links to resources around dealing with challenging behaviours and the National Parenting Strategy.
Parent Club – Behaviour
Created by Scottish Government, this resource includes support for parents and carers. Resources are broken down by age and with topics on building positive relationships, avoiding tantrums, coping with parenting and making life easier at home.
The Challenging Behaviour Foundation
This charity focuses on needs of children and young people with severe learning disabilities and provides guidance around challenging behaviour, including rights, cost of living support and more.
VOCAL (Voice of Carers Across Lothian)
Organisation that supports and empowers unpaid carers in Edinburgh and Midlothian through individual support, information, training and access to services.
Family Advice Information Resource (FAIR)
Free information and advice for people with learning disabilities and carers in Edinburgh.
Mindroom
Offers information and support to parents, carers, families, children and young people, including transition guidance and support groups.
Contact Details
Email: directhelp@mindroom.org
Kindred
Provides parents of children with complex needs to have early access to peer-led advocacy, support and information.
Enquire
A Scottish advice service for additional support for learning. Providing easy to understand advice and information about additional support for learning legislation and guidance for families and professionals.
The Yard
This charity, with a location in Edinburgh, is a hub for families of disabled children and young people, offering support, outreach programmes, short breaks and family support designed to empower children and allow families to thrive.
Barnardos
UK children’s charity providing specialist services to support children, young people, carers, parents and families looking for support and information around mental health, wellbeing, the care system, cost of living, disabilities and more.
Social Security Scotland
Information on financial support and how to apply for families, unpaid carers, disabled people, young people and more.
Videos
Click the arrow next to the video title to see the video.
Make It Happen: A video explaining and demonstrating the strategy ‘Make It Happen’ aimed at helping children trust timetables.
When someone is unsure what to expect in a situation, if the haven’t learned the skills needed or if they have had unhelpful previous experiences, they may be unsure or unwilling to take part in an activity. The link to the video below explains some ways to support and encourage children and young people to participation in day to day activities.
Video Resources for Parents & Carers: Video library for parents and carers to support children experiencing depression, low mood, anxiety, and overall behaviour.
Follow this link to access videos and resources.
Guides, Toolkits and Learning Pathways
Understanding Sensory Behaviour
A booklet aimed at explaining sensory seeking behaviour, why it occurs, and how to facilitate sensory seeking behaviour in a safe way.
Parent Toolkit – Ambitious about Autism
From the autism assessment process to the first day of school, this toolkit is packed with practical tips and checklists to support parents during the earliest years of their child’s life. It also provides signposts to sources of support or additional information.
Understanding the Strengths and Difficulties of DCD: A Guide for Parents
A resource for from EPIC to help parents and carers learn more about strategies for developing skills and managing
difficulties.
Togetherness
Provides a variety of evidence-based online courses on parenting and development for parents, carers, grandparents, teens and professionals.
Use access code TARTAN to register for free online courses.
Embracing Difference
A six-session recorded group for parents of primary aged children (4-11) who are neurodivergent or present with developmental divergence.
The Embracing Difference flyerprovides more information
Place2Be Parenting Smart Resources
Collection of parenting advice from child mental health experts with practical tips to support children’s wellbeing and behaviour.
Primary School Age (5-11) Resources and Supports
Helpful Organisations and Services
NHS Lothian Health Visiting: Behaviour and Parenting
Provides links to resources around dealing with challenging behaviours and the National Parenting Strategy.
Parent Club – Behaviour
Created by Scottish Government, this resource includes support for parents and carers. Resources are broken down by age and with topics on building positive relationships, avoiding tantrums, coping with parenting and making life easier at home.
The Challenging Behaviour Foundation
This charity focuses on needs of children and young people with severe learning disabilities and provides guidance around challenging behaviour, including rights, cost of living support and more.
ERIC – The Children’s Bowel and Bladder Charity
ERIC is the national charity dedicated to improving children’s bowel and bladder health, which offers a free helpline and a variety of resources around toileting, potty training, bedwetting, and many other challenges family face.
Helpline: 0808 801 0343
Sleep Action
Supports children and young people living in Scotland who are struggling to sleep by focusing on building healthy sleep habits and behaviours that last a lifetime. They have a line to offer one-to-one support along with resources for a variety of ages and stages.
Beat Eating Disorders
Provides support to people affected by eating disorders through our helpline, online support services and information.
Helpline: 0808 801 0432
VOCAL (Voice of Carers Across Lothian)
Organisation that supports and empowers unpaid carers in Edinburgh and Midlothian through individual support, information, training and access to services.
Family Advice Information Resource (FAIR)
Free information and advice for people with learning disabilities and carers in Edinburgh.
Mindroom
Offers information and support to parents, carers, families, children and young people, including transition guidance and support groups.
Contact Details
Email: directhelp@mindroom.org
Team-United
Provides opportunities for 8–16-year-olds to take part in sport and athletics, with a football league as a platform for neurodiversity to flourish.
The Yard
This charity, with a location in Edinburgh, is a hub for families of disabled children and young people, offering support, outreach programmes, short breaks and family support designed to empower children and allow families to thrive.
Branch Out Together
A charity providing social activities for children and young people with autism throughout Edinburgh and The Lothians. They offer a supportive and understanding learning environment, and weekly events where the children can try new activities that are stimulating and challenging.
NHS Speech and Language Therapy – Ages 0-18
Provides service information, general advice, additional resources, and guidance on when and how to access the service.
Education Scotland: Dyscalculia
Provides additional information about dyscalculia and where to find additional advice.
Education Scotland: Dyslexia
Provides additional information about dyslexia and where to find additional advice.
Dyslexia Unwrapped
An online hub for young people with dyslexia created by and for young people through Dyslexia Scotland.
Barnardos
UK children’s charity providing specialist services to support children, young people, carers, parents and families looking for support and information around mental health, wellbeing, the care system, cost of living, disabilities and more.
Social Security Scotland
Information on financial support and how to apply for families, unpaid carers, disabled people, young people and more.
Videos
Click the arrow next to the title to see the video.
Amazing Kids: Listen to children from different backgrounds share their unique experiences of autism in their own words.
Using a Visual Timetable: A video explaining and demonstrating how to use a visual timetable with children with autism.
Make It Happen: A video explaining and demonstrating the strategy ‘Make It Happen’ aimed at helping children trust timetables.
St Clement’s Practical Autism Video Guides: A YouTube channel with videos created on a variety of topics to help understand and support autistic children and young people.
Video Resources for Parents & Carers: Video library for parents and carers to support children experiencing depression, low mood, anxiety, and overall behaviour.
Follow this link to access videos and resources.
Guides, Toolkits and Learning Pathways
Understanding Sensory Behaviour
A booklet aimed at explaining sensory seeking behaviour, why it occurs, and how to facilitate sensory seeking behaviour in a safe way.
Place2Be Parenting Smart Resources
Collection of parenting advice from child mental health experts with practical tips to support children’s wellbeing and behaviour.
Classroom Accommodations for DCD
This article suggests various adjustments to help children and young people thrive in school.
Young Minds ADHD Guide
This guide for parents explains ADHD and offers practical advice on seeking diagnosis, working with schools and supporting children and teenagers with ADHD. It also highlights the importance of understanding individual differences and accessing support when needed.
Be Kind to My Mind Resource Page
This page offers guidance for parents and carers supporting children with ADHD. It provides access to articles, videos, downloadable guides and information about local services.
Transformation Partners ADHD Booklets
Transformation Partners in Health and Care produced a set of booklets for children, teenagers and their parents and carers sharing information about ADHD and ways that children and young people can thrive.
Parent Toolkit – Ambitious about Autism
From the autism assessment process to the first day of school, this toolkit is packed with practical tips and checklists to support parents during the earliest years of their child’s life. It also provides signposts to sources of support or additional information.
Understanding the Strengths and Difficulties of DCD: A Guide for Parents
A resource for from EPIC to help parents and carers learn more about strategies for developing skills and managing
difficulties.
Health Passport
Guidance to develop a ‘passport’ of essential information for autistic young people that can be passed on to doctors/professionals.
Dyslexia Masterclass for Parents
Developed by Dyslexia Scotland, this 90 minute course provides information for parents and carers of a child with dyslexia .
Togetherness
Provides a variety of evidence-based online courses on parenting and development for parents, carers, grandparents, teens and professionals.
Use access code TARTAN to register for free online courses.
Embracing Difference
A six-session recorded group for parents of primary aged children who are neurodivergent or present with developmental divergence.
The Embracing Difference flyerprovides more information
Attention and Concentration: Supporting a Child with ADHD
Online programme designed for parents, carers and guardians of children aged 6 to 12 years of age to understand concentration, attention, and anxiety.
Passcode: Scotland2020
Secondary School Age (11-18) Resources and Supports
Helpful Organisations and Services
ERIC – The Children’s Bowel and Bladder Charity
Offers a free helpline and a variety of resources around toileting, bedwetting, and information for teenagers and young people living with bowel and bladder conditions.
Helpline: 0808 801 0343
Sleep Action
Supports children and young people living in Scotland who are struggling to sleep by focusing on building healthy sleep habits and behaviours that last a lifetime. They have a line to offer one-to-one support along with resources for a variety of ages and stages.
Parent Club – Behaviour
Created by Scottish Government, this resource includes support for parents and carers. Resources are broken down by age and with topics on building positive relationships, avoiding tantrums, coping with parenting and making life easier at home.
IntoWork
A specialised employment support service for disabled jobseekers across Edinburgh and the Lothians. To be eligible the young person must be aged 16 and above.
The Challenging Behaviour Foundation
This charity focuses on needs of children and young people with severe learning disabilities and provides guidance around challenging behaviour, including rights, cost of living support and more.
Beat Eating Disorders
Provides support to people affected by eating disorders through our helpline, online support services and information.
Helpline: 0808 801 0432
VOCAL (Voice of Carers Across Lothian)
Organisation that supports and empowers unpaid carers in Edinburgh and Midlothian through individual support, information, training and access to services.
Family Advice Information Resource (FAIR)
Free information and advice for people with learning disabilities and carers in Edinburgh.
Mindroom
Offers information and support to parents, carers, families, children and young people, including transition guidance and support groups.
Contact Details
Email: directhelp@mindroom.org
Team-United
Provides opportunities for 8–16-year-olds to take part in sport and athletics, with a football league as a platform for neurodiversity to flourish.
The Yard
This charity, with a location in Edinburgh, is a hub for families of disabled children and young people, offering support, outreach programmes, short breaks and family support designed to empower children and allow families to thrive.
Branch Out Together
A charity providing social activities for children and young people with autism throughout Edinburgh and The Lothians. They offer a supportive and understanding learning environment, and weekly events where the children can try new activities that are stimulating and challenging.
Autistic Mutual Aid Society Edinburgh
Their orgnaisation’s goal is to help autistic people make each other’s lives better through peer support, advocacy and education.
NHS Speech and Language Therapy – Ages 0-18
Provides service information, general advice, additional resources, and guidance on when and how to access the service.
Education Scotland: Dyscalculia
Provides additional information about dyscalculia and where to find additional advice.
Education Scotland: Dyslexia
Provides additional information about dyslexia and where to find additional advice.
Dyslexia Unwrapped
An online hub for young people with dyslexia created by and for young people through Dyslexia Scotland.
Barnardos
UK children’s charity providing specialist services to support children, young people, carers, parents and families looking for support and information around mental health, wellbeing, the care system, cost of living, disabilities and more.
Social Security Scotland
Information on financial support and how to apply for families, unpaid carers, disabled people, young people and more.
Videos
Click the arrow next to the title to see the video.
Using a Visual Timetable: A video explaining and demonstrating how to use a visual timetable with children with autism.
Make It Happen: A video explaining and demonstrating the strategy ‘Make It Happen’ aimed at helping children trust timetables.
St Clement’s Practical Autism Video Guides: A YouTube channel with videos created on a variety of topics to help understand and support autistic children and young people.
Video Resources for Parents & Carers: Video library for parents and carers to support children experiencing depression, low mood, anxiety, and overall behaviour.
Follow this link to access videos and resources.
Guides, Toolkits and Learning Pathways
Understanding Sensory Behaviour
A booklet aimed at explaining sensory seeking behaviour, why it occurs, and how to facilitate sensory seeking behaviour in a safe way.
Attention and Concentration: Supporting a Child with ADHD
Online programme designed for parents, carers and guardians of children aged 6 to 12 years of age to understand concentration, attention, and anxiety.
Passcode: Scotland2020
Place2Be Parenting Smart Resources
Collection of parenting advice from child mental health experts with practical tips to support children’s wellbeing and behaviour.
Young Minds ADHD Guide
This guide for parents explains ADHD and offers practical advice on seeking diagnosis, working with schools and supporting children and teenagers with ADHD. It also highlights the importance of understanding individual differences and accessing support when needed.
Be Kind to My Mind Resource Page
This page offers guidance for parents and carers supporting children with ADHD. It provides access to articles, videos, downloadable guides and information about local services.
Transformation Partners ADHD Booklets
Transformation Partners in Health and Care produced a set of booklets for children, teenagers and their parents and carers sharing information about ADHD and ways that children and young people can thrive.
Classroom Accommodations for DCD
This article suggests various adjustments to help children and young people thrive in school.
14 Ways to Help Older Kids Build Motor Skills
This resource provides suggestions of fun activities for teenagers to help build various fine and gross motor skills.
Health Passport
Guidance to develop a ‘passport’ of essential information for autistic young people that can be passed on to doctors/professionals.
Dyslexia Masterclass for Parents
Developed by Dyslexia Scotland, this 90 minute course provides information for parents and carers of a child with dyslexia .
Togetherness
Provides a variety of evidence-based online courses on parenting and development for parents, carers, grandparents, teens and professionals.
Use access code TARTAN to register for free online courses.
Adults (18+) Resources and Supports
Helpful Organisations and Services
Beat Eating Disorders
Provides support to people affected by eating disorders through our helpline, online support services and information.
Helpline: 0808 801 0432
The Challenging Behaviour Foundation
This charity focuses on needs of individuals with severe learning disabilities and provides guidance around challenging behaviour, including rights, cost of living support and more.
Number 6 One-Stop Shop for Autistic Adults
This organisation provides free social opportunities and 1-1 advice and support on a range of issues for adults with autism.
VOCAL (Voice of Carers Across Lothian)
Organisation that supports and empowers unpaid carers in Edinburgh and Midlothian through individual support, information, training and access to services.
Family Advice Information Resource (FAIR)
Free information and advice for people with learning disabilities and carers in Edinburgh.
Mindroom
Offers information and support to parents, carers, families, children and young people (through age 25), including transition guidance and support groups.
Contact Details
Email: directhelp@mindroom.org
Social Security Scotland
Information on financial support and how to apply for families, unpaid carers, disabled people, young people and more.
Scottish ADHD Coalition
The organisation encourages collaboration and resource sharing, and advocates for improved ADHD diagnosis and support through joint campaigning with public services and partner organisations.
ADHD and You
This organisation provides information about ADHD and associated resources categorised by parents and carers, young people, adults and educators.
Autistic Mutual Aid Society Edinburgh
Their orgnaisation’s goal is to help autistic people make each other’s lives better through peer support, advocacy and education.
Barnardos
UK children’s charity providing specialist services to support children, young people, carers, parents and families looking for support and information around mental health, wellbeing, the care system, cost of living, disabilities and more.
Guides, Toolkits and Learning Pathways
Togetherness
Provides a variety of evidence-based online courses on parenting and development for parents, carers, grandparents, teens and professionals.
Use access code TARTAN to register for free online courses.
Health Passport
Guidance to develop a ‘passport’ of essential information for autistic young people that can be passed on to doctors/professionals.
Information and Supports for Specific Conditions
These resources are grouped by different neurodevelopmental conditions to make it easier to explore guidance tailored to particular needs.
ADHD Resources
Helpful Organisations and Services
ADHD and You
This organisation provides information about ADHD and associated resources categorised by parents and carers, young people, adults and educators.
Scottish ADHD Coalition
The organisation encourages collaboration and resource sharing, and advocates for improved ADHD diagnosis and support through joint campaigning with public services and partner organisations.
Videos
Click the arrow next to the video title to see the video.
What is ADHD
Video Resources for Parents & Carers: Video library for parents and carers to support children experiencing depression, low mood, anxiety, and overall behaviour.
Follow this link to access videos and resources.
Guides, Toolkits and Learning Pathways
Complete Guide to ADHD
From the Child Mind Institute, this guide offers parents and carers information to understand the behaviours associated with ADHD to help them make effective decisions with their child about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.
Togetherness
Provides a variety of evidence-based online courses on parenting and development for parents, carers, grandparents, teens and professionals.
Use access code TARTAN to register for free online courses.
Transformation Partners ADHD Booklets
Transformation Partners in Health and Care produced a set of booklets for children, teenagers and their parents and carers sharing information about ADHD and ways that children and young people can thrive.
Young Minds ADHD Guide
This guide for parents explains ADHD and offers practical advice on seeking diagnosis, working with schools and supporting children and teenagers with ADHD. It also highlights the importance of understanding individual differences and accessing support when needed.
Be Kind to My Mind Resource Page
This page offers guidance for parents and carers supporting children with ADHD. It provides access to articles, videos, downloadable guides and information about local services.
NHS Inform: ADHD
The NHS Inform page provides a comprehensive overview of ADHD and links to related conditions.
Embracing Difference
A six-session recorded group for parents of primary aged children who are neurodivergent or present with developmental divergence.
The Embracing Difference flyerprovides more information
Attention and Concentration: Supporting a Child with ADHD
Online programme designed for parents, carers and guardians of children aged 6 to 12 years of age to understand concentration, attention, and anxiety.
Passcode: Scotland2020
Understanding the Strengths
and Difficulties of ADHD: A Guide for Parents
A resource for from EPIC to help parents and carers learn more about strategies for developing skills and managing
difficulties.
Autism Resources
Helpful Organisations and Services
National Autistic Society
This organisation provides advice and guidance around anything and everything related to autism across the UK, including supports, connection to community, and a service directory.
Links to Specific Supports
Scottish Autism
This charity offers resources and connects families with supports across Scotland, including specific resources self-directed supports, online support for women and girls with autism, an autism advice line and crisis support.
Ambitious about Autism
This charity offers range of services that empower and support autistic young people. They work with autistic young people, their families, employers, and professionals to increase autism confidence and create opportunities.
Child Autism UK
This charity supports children, families and professionals across the UK by providing training, support and advice.
Helpline: 01344 882248
Team-United
Provides opportunities for 8–16-year-olds to take part in sport and athletics, with a football league as a platform for neurodiversity to flourish.
Number 6 One-Stop Shop for Autistic Adults
This organisation provides free social opportunities and 1-1 advice and support on a range of issues for adults with autism.
The Yard
This charity, with a location in Edinburgh, is a hub for families of disabled children and young people, offering support, outreach programmes, short breaks and family support designed to empower children and allow families to thrive.
Branch Out Together
A charity providing social activities for children and young people with autism throughout Edinburgh and The Lothians. They offer a supportive and understanding learning environment, and weekly events where the children can try new activities that are stimulating and challenging.
IntoWork
A specialised employment support service for disabled jobseekers across Edinburgh and the Lothians. To be eligible to receive their services the young person must be aged 16 and above.
Autistic Mutual Aid Society Edinburgh
Their orgnaisation’s goal is to help autistic people make each other’s lives better through peer support, advocacy and education.
SWAN
SWAN is an autistic-led Charity delivering services, information and support for and by autistic women, girls and non-binary people across Scotland.
NHS Speech and Language Therapy – Ages 0-18
Provides service information, general advice, additional resources, and guidance on when and how to access the service.
Social Security Scotland
Information on financial support and how to apply for families, unpaid carers, disabled people, young people and more.
Different Minds
Created by the Scottish Government and written in partnership with autistic people, this website provides information about autism, busts myths and links to supports.
Enquire
A Scottish advice service for additional support for learning. Providing easy to understand advice and information about additional support for learning legislation and guidance for families and professionals.
Autistic Girls Network
Offers education, support and resources on a variety of topics with a focus on girls, women, and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Videos
Click the arrow next to the title to see the video.
Amazing Kids: Listen to children from different backgrounds share their unique experiences of autism in their own words.
Using a Visual Timetable: A video explaining and demonstrating how to use a visual timetable with children with autism.
Make It Happen: A video explaining and demonstrating the strategy ‘Make It Happen’ aimed at helping children trust timetables.
St Clement’s Practical Autism Video Guides: A YouTube channel with videos created on a variety of topics to help understand and support autistic children and young people.
Can you make it to the end?: A video that demonstrates how sensory overload feels.
Video Resources for Parents & Carers: Video library for parents and carers to support children experiencing depression, low mood, anxiety, and overall behaviour.
Follow this link to access videos and resources.
Guides, Toolkits and Learning Pathways
Parent Toolkit – Ambitious about Autism
From the autism assessment process to the first day of school, this toolkit is packed with practical tips and checklists to support parents during the earliest years of their child’s life. It also provides signposts to sources of support or additional information.
Understanding Sensory Behaviour
A booklet aimed at explaining sensory seeking behaviour, why it occurs, and how to facilitate sensory seeking behaviour in a safe way.
Health Passport
Guidance to develop a ‘passport’ of essential information for autistic young people that can be passed on to doctors/professionals.
Togetherness
Provides a variety of evidence-based online courses on parenting and development for parents, carers, grandparents, teens and professionals.
Use access code TARTAN to register for free online courses.
Embracing Difference
A six-session recorded group for parents of primary aged children who are neurodivergent or present with developmental divergence.
The Embracing Difference flyerprovides more information
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) Resources
Videos
Click the arrow next to the title to see the video.
What is DCD?: Hear from experts on this common difference and how it impacts motor skills and coordination.
Video Resources for Parents & Carers: Video library for parents and carers to support children experiencing depression, low mood, anxiety, and overall behaviour.
Follow this link to access videos and resources.
Guides, Toolkits and Learning Pathways
14 Ways to Help Older Kids Build Motor Skills
This resource provides suggestions of fun activities for teenagers to help build various fine and gross motor skills.
Classroom Accommodations for DCD
This article suggests various adjustments to help children and young people thrive in school.
Understanding the Strengths and Difficulties of DCD: A Guide for Parents
A resource for from EPIC to help parents and carers learn more about strategies for developing skills and managing
difficulties.
Togetherness
Provides a variety of evidence-based online courses on parenting and development for parents, carers, grandparents, teens and professionals.
Use access code TARTAN to register for free online courses.
Embracing Difference
A six-session recorded group for parents of primary aged children who are neurodivergent or present with developmental divergence.
The Embracing Difference flyerprovides more information
Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) Resources
Helpful Organisations and Services
NAPLIC: DLD
Offers support and additional information, including online learning and resources for families.
NHS Speech and Language Therapy – Ages 0-18
Provides service information, general advice, additional resources, and guidance on when and how to access the service.
Local Helpline Contact Details for 0-5 years old.
Videos
Click the arrow next to the title to see the video.
RADLD Youtube Channel, created to Raise Awareness of Developmental Language Disorder
Follow this link to find videos about DLD from people with lived experience.
You can’t see DLD: An introduction to Developmental Language Disorder
Video Resources for Parents & Carers: Video library for parents and carers to support children experiencing depression, low mood, anxiety, and overall behaviour.
Follow this link to access videos and resources.
Guides, Toolkits and Learning Pathways
Togetherness
Provides a variety of evidence-based online courses on parenting and development for parents, carers, grandparents, teens and professionals.
Use access code TARTAN to register for free online courses.
Embracing Difference
A six-session recorded group for parents of primary aged children who are neurodivergent or present with developmental divergence.
The Embracing Difference flyerprovides more information
Dyscalculia Resources
Helpful Organisations and Services
Education Scotland: Dyscalculia
Provides additional information about dyscalculia and where to find additional advice.
Dyscalculia Network
Offers educational support, campaigning and raising awareness of dyscalculia and maths learning difficulties across the UK.
Guides, Toolkits and Learning Pathways
Togetherness
Provides a variety of evidence-based online courses on parenting and development for parents, carers, grandparents, teens and professionals.
Use access code TARTAN to register for free online courses.
Embracing Difference
A six-session recorded group for parents of primary aged children who are neurodivergent or present with developmental divergence.
The Embracing Difference flyerprovides more information
Dyslexia Resources
Helpful Organisations and Services
Dyslexia Scotland
An organisation with resources and supports on a range of topics related to dyslexia, including career guidance, mental health, tutors and training.
Education Scotland: Dyslexia
Provides additional information about dyslexia and where to find additional advice.
British Dyslexia Association
A membership organisation working to achieve a dyslexia-friendly society for all. They provide additional supports and services.
Dyslexia Unwrapped
An online hub for young people with dyslexia created by and for young people through Dyslexia Scotland.
Videos
Click the arrow next to the title to see the video.
See dyslexia differently: This animation seeks to preempt misconceptions among young audiences by shedding light on the real challenges dyslexic children face whilst also acknowledging their strengths and potential.
Guides, Toolkits and Learning Pathways
Dyslexia Masterclass for Parents
Developed by Dyslexia Scotland, this 90 minute course provides information for parents and carers of a child with dyslexia .
Togetherness
Provides a variety of evidence-based online courses on parenting and development for parents, carers, grandparents, teens and professionals.
Use access code TARTAN to register for free online courses.
Embracing Difference
A six-session recorded group for parents of primary aged children who are neurodivergent or present with developmental divergence.
The Embracing Difference flyerprovides more information
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Resources
Helpful Organisations and Services
FASD Hub Scotland
A national support service – funded by the Scottish Government – available for all parents and carers of children and young people who have, or may have, been affected by prenatal exposure to alcohol.
FASD Collaborative Project
Provides free webinars, support groups, and online training to support the needs of all individuals who are neurodiverse.
National Organisation for FASD
Vital resource for information and support related to FASD, offering guidance and support.
Social Security Scotland
Information on financial support and how to apply for families, unpaid carers, disabled people, young people and more.
Videos
Click the arrow next to the title to see the video.
Video Resources for Parents & Carers: Video library for parents and carers to support children experiencing depression, low mood, anxiety, and overall behaviour.
Follow this link to access videos and resources.
Guides, Toolkits and Learning Pathways
FASD Diagnosis and Assessment Fact Sheet
A short guide to diagnosis and assessments for FASD.
SIGN FASD Booklet
Summarises key recommendations from the clinical guideline, helping parents and carers understand what FASD is, what the assessment process involves, and what support may be available.
Togetherness
Provides a variety of evidence-based online courses on parenting and development for parents, carers, grandparents, teens and professionals.
Use access code TARTAN to register for free online courses.
Embracing Difference
A six-session recorded group for parents of primary aged children who are neurodivergent or present with developmental divergence.
The Embracing Difference flyerprovides more information
Learning Disability and Intellectual Disability Resources
Helpful Organisations and Services
NHS Lothian: Learning Disability Service
NHS service detailing specific teams, contact information and further resources. Information for those 16 years or older.
NHS Lothian CAMHS Intellectual Disability Service
NHS service works with children and young people who are 0-18 years of age, have significant developmental delay or a learning disability (with or without autism), and have mental health or complex behavioural problems.
Family Advice Information Resource (FAIR)
Free information and advice for people with learning disabilities and carers in Edinburgh.
MENCAP
Provides an extensive explanation of intellectual disabilities, as well
as support and advice surrounding education, diagnosis, benefits and
more.
The Yard
This charity, with a location in Edinburgh, is a hub for families of disabled children and young people, offering support, outreach programmes, short breaks and family support designed to empower children and allow families to thrive.
IntoWork
A specialised employment support service for disabled jobseekers across Edinburgh and the Lothians. To be eligible the young person must be aged 16 and above.
Kindred
Provides parents of children with complex needs to have early access to peer-led advocacy, support and information.
Enquire
A Scottish advice service for additional support for learning. Providing easy to understand advice and information about additional support for learning legislation and guidance for families and professionals.
The Challenging Behaviour Foundation
This charity focuses on needs of children and young people with severe learning disabilities and provides guidance around challenging behaviour, including rights, cost of living support and more.
VOCAL (Voice of Carers Across Lothian)
Organisation that supports and empowers unpaid carers in Edinburgh and Midlothian through individual support, information, training and access to services.
Barnardos
UK children’s charity providing specialist services to support children, young people, carers, parents and families looking for support and information around mental health, wellbeing, the care system, cost of living, disabilities and more.
PAMIS
Works solely with people with profound learning and multiple disabilities (PMLD) and their families for a better life, offering family support, learning opportunities, transitions, self-directed support and Changing Places Toilets.
Scottish Commission for People with Learning Disabilities
A knowledge hub offering support, information and new ideas about learning disability in Scotland.
Social Security Scotland
Information on financial support and how to apply for families, unpaid carers, disabled people, young people and more.
Videos
Click the arrow next to the title to see the video.
Video Resources for Parents & Carers: Video library for parents and carers to support children experiencing depression, low mood, anxiety, and overall behaviour.
Follow this link to access videos and resources.
Guides, Toolkits and Learning Pathways
Togetherness
Provides a variety of evidence-based online courses on parenting and development for parents, carers, grandparents, teens and professionals.
Use access code TARTAN to register for free online courses.
Embracing Difference
A six-session recorded group for parents of primary aged children who are neurodivergent or present with developmental divergence.
The Embracing Difference flyerprovides more information
