Neurodivergence is a term that describes the natural variations in how people think, learn, process information, and experience the world. It includes conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, Tourette’s syndrome, and others.
Being neurodivergent simply means a person’s brain works differently. These differences can bring unique strengths as well as challenges.
One area where differences often show up is in executive functioning which is the mental skills we use to manage daily life. This includes things like planning, organising, focusing, remembering instructions, managing time and emotions, and starting or finishing tasks.
For some neurodivergent individuals, this might look like:
- Difficulty starting or completing tasks
- Losing track of time or forgetting steps
- Feeling overwhelmed by changes or multi-step instructions
- Needing extra time or support to stay organised
These differences are not about intelligence or effort, they reflect how the brain processes and prioritises information.
This section of the SEND Local Offer is here to help families, children and young people understand what support is available for neurodivergent individuals. You’ll find resources, services, and guidance to help you navigate next steps.