Understanding and connection for parents with neurodivergent children
A new robust peer support network for parents with neurodivergent children is helping families feel more supported and less alone.
ARCOS, a Malvern‑based therapy charity supporting children and adults with additional needs, identified that many families with neuro‑divergent children were experiencing significant social isolation.
With support from a Worcestershire County Council public health grant, ARCOS developed a peer support network, shaped by feedback from families. The network includes a monthly evening support group held at the ARCOS centre, which was already a familiar and accessible venue for families. Alongside this, an email mailing list and online support channels were established to ensure families could stay connected
A total of 34 parent carers joined the mailing list, and 18 attended the first in‑person session. This approach directly reflected the needs expressed by families, ensuring the support offered was relevant and accessible.
The project has had a hugely positive impact on those taking part. Parents reported feeling more connected and less isolated, with the regular sessions providing a consistent opportunity to share challenges, exchange advice and build supportive relationships. The mailing list has become an active communication channel, enabling families to share local resources, events and relevant information, helping to maintain engagement between sessions.
One parent, Joanne Csatari, described the difference the project has made to her daughter Emily. She said: “Emily really enjoys Mondays sessions with the other girls and has made friends which has really helped her confidence. Thursday’s games night has also really helped Emily engage and find a new interest. I did not expect to see her so willing to sit and engage in dungeons and dragons with the other children. It was lovely to see her so happy.”
To ensure the project continues beyond the initial grant period, ARCOS is establishing a partnership with the Worcestershire Parent Carer Forum. Together, they will deliver a consistent programme of monthly sessions, with ARCOS leading on administration and management of the mailing list.
This approach will help maintain the project’s long‑term sustainability and ensure families continue to benefit from regular opportunities for connection and peer support. For more information on ARCOS and the work they do, please visit: arcos.org.uk |
To find out more about our public health community grant programme see: www.worcestershire.gov.uk/communitygrants