New Open University toolkit launched to support Northern Ireland parents of neurodivergent children

Parents across Northern Ireland are being offered new support as research from The Open University reveals many families of neurodivergent children feel overwhelmed and under-resourced when trying to find reliable guidance.

With diagnoses of conditions such as autism, ADHD and dyslexia continuing to rise across the UK and Ireland, the research highlights a growing need for clear, practical and trustworthy information for families navigating support systems.

The survey of 1,000 UK parents of neurodivergent children found that while 70% say they have a trusted place to go for advice, many still feel uncertain about the information available. Only one in four (25%) parents feel confident in the sources they use, while a similar proportion report feeling overwhelmed by the volume of information — particularly mothers.

Across Northern Ireland, where families often navigate complex education and health pathways, the findings reflect what many parents and carers experience daily: searching for clear, accessible support in one place.

Families searching for support

The research found parents turn to a wide range of sources for guidance. More than half (56%) rely on NHS websites, followed by schools (40%), search engines (37%) and charities or specialist organisations (36%).

However, nearly one in five (19%) say they always have to search for resources themselves, and 96% say they would find a single, combined resource or toolkit helpful.

In response, The Open University has launched its free Supporting Neurodivergent Children hub, bringing together practical tools and expert guidance for parents, carers, educators and professionals supporting neurodivergent children and young people.

The hub is particularly relevant for Northern Ireland’s education and community sectors, where schools, classroom assistants, youth workers and families are increasingly supporting children with additional needs and seeking accessible professional development and advice.

Practical tools for home, school and community

Developed by OU academics Mel Green and Dr Poppy Gibson — both of whom bring academic expertise alongside lived experience of raising and teaching neurodivergent children — the toolkit offers:

• Practical strategies to try at home and in school
• Expert-backed guidance on sensory needs, communication and routines
• Flexible learning pathways, including free short courses and routes into study in childhood, early years and inclusive education

The research also highlights growing interest among parents in developing their own knowledge and skills. Nearly three-quarters (74%) say they already work in, or would consider pursuing, a career in special educational needs or additional support roles — an area of increasing workforce demand across Northern Ireland.

Reassurance for families

The campaign aims to reassure families who may feel isolated or unsure if they are “doing it right”, with a core message that parents and carers are not alone. While 45% of parents say it is easy to find practical strategies, nearly three in ten (28%) still find it difficult, and many report feeling anxious (20%) or stressed (18%) when searching for help.

Dr Poppy Gibson, Lecturer in Education at The Open University, said:
“We believe that understanding and embracing neurodiversity is the first step towards helping every child thrive. Parents of neurodivergent children face unique joys and challenges, and they deserve accessible, expert-informed support. This toolkit has been created to empower families with practical strategies, reassurance and real-world insight.”

Mel Green, Lecturer in Education at The Open University, added:
“When my son received his diagnosis, I wished that I had something to help me understand how I could best support him to be himself comfortably in a world that is not always designed with neurodivergent children in mind. I wanted to offer parents practical strategies and clear information so they feel more confident in supporting and advocating for their children.”

Professor Al Laville, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at The Open University, said the initiative reflects the university’s long-standing commitment to widening access to education and opportunity.

“This toolkit reflects our commitment to empowering parents, carers and educators with practical, evidence-informed resources that promote neurodivergent inclusion throughout a child’s life. By equipping families with the right tools, we hope to help create a more equitable future where every young person can reach their full potential.”

Access the free toolkit

Parents, carers, educators and professionals across Northern Ireland can now access the Supporting Neurodivergent Children hub free of charge. It offers guidance on everything from daily routines and communication to sensory needs, alongside inspiring stories and pathways into further learning.

Explore the free Supporting Neurodivergent Children hub and toolkit:
https://www.open.ac.uk/courses/choose/neurodivergent-children/?utm_source=external_comms&utm_medium=external_partner&utm_content=united_kingdom_landing_page_1876107397