Me + My Normal: A Pioneering Approach to Supporting Neurodivergent Young People

amydownes
Oct 10
3 min read

Updated: 6 hours ago

This World Mental Health Day, we're dedicated to highlighting the urgent need for better support for neurodivergent young people — by sharing how our pioneering new programme, Me + My Normal, is already changing lives.

Celebrating Uniqueness Through ‘Me and My Normal’

At Northorpe Hall, we’ve been supporting children, young people, and families for more than 60 years. Over that time, we’ve seen how difficult it can be for families to find the right help after a neurodevelopmental diagnosis. Too often, the journey begins with uncertainty — and very little support.

That’s why we developed Me + My Normal, a youth-centred, neuro-affirming programme for young people aged 11–17. The programme creates a safe and welcoming space where participants can explore their diagnosis, connect with others who understand, and develop a stronger sense of self. Families tell us this support has been a “lifeline.”

What the Research Shows

An independent evaluation, conducted by Dr Gráinne McMahon between March and September 2025, has shown just how vital this work is.

Parents told us that before finding Me + My Normal, they often felt isolated and unsure where to turn:

“There’s literally nothing anywhere. They’re not going to get it at school, of course.”

“You’re given a report and that’s it. No support, no guidance – just a list of websites. You’re on your own.”

“You end up down rabbit holes online, trying to figure out what might help.”

These experiences highlight the significant gaps in provision for neurodivergent young people and their families — and the difference our approach can make.

A Different Kind of Support

Unlike traditional services that focus on “fixing” young people so they fit with societal norms, Me + My Normal celebrates every participant’s individuality. Our sessions help young people to understand and embrace their neurodivergence, build confidence, and form meaningful friendships.

As our CEO, Dipika Kaushal, explains:

“Me + My Normal is exactly the kind of early intervention that makes a lasting difference. We’ve seen young people grow in confidence, build real friendships, and begin to celebrate their own neurodiversity – attendance and engagement levels were at 90%, which proves this approach works.”

“For families who’ve struggled to access support, this programme brings reassurance, guidance, and a place to feel understood. Parents have also been able to connect with other families, reducing the isolation they are feeling.”

Our Parent and Neurodiversity Lead, Rosa Forrest, has also seen the programme’s impact first-hand:

“Many of the young people we meet are isolated and uncertain after receiving – or even while waiting for – a diagnosis. Through Me + My Normal, they’ve started to understand themselves better and find the confidence to speak up about their needs.”

“Parents tell us what a relief it is to see their children accepted and valued. Connecting with other families facing similar challenges makes a huge difference too.”

You can read more of Rosa's thoughts in her heartfelt blog which is shared here.

Making a Lasting Impact

By filling a major gap in support services for neurodivergent young people, Me + My Normal is showing what’s possible when we focus on understanding, confidence, and connection rather than crisis management.

We’ve now released a summary of the programme’s evaluation report, as well as a copy of the full report, which highlights the positive outcomes and lasting impact this work is having. You can view those by clicking on the links below.

If you’d like to learn more about Me + My Normal, or explore how you can support the programme, please contact us at support@northorpe.com.

And you can read more about the project from our Parent and Neurodiversity Lead, Rosa Forrest, here.