This website was developed as part of the All Age Neurodevelopmental Review carried out by NHS Dorset. 

The review identified a need for better information about the support available for people with neurodevelopmental conditions in Dorset, particularly those living with autism and ADHD. 

Why did we develop this website?

This website is designed to:

  • provide a trusted and credible source of neurodevelopmental information for all people in Dorset, with a particular focus on autism and ADHD 

  • improve understanding of the support available for people with neurodevelopmental conditions in Dorset, by signposting to local and national organisations that provide help and advice 

  • guide people through decision-making processes that will help them consider their circumstances and access the right support and information  

  • answer common enquiries and questions.

How we produced the content

We have worked alongside people with lived experience of autism and ADHD to co-produce the content for the website, as well as experts from the NHS and local charities.  

We are very grateful for the support of Dorset Adult Asperger’s Support (DAAS), Dorset Parent Carer Council (DPCC), Parent Carers Together, Autism Unlimited, Dorset Mental Health Forum, Dorset HealthCare, Dorset County Hospital, University Hospitals Dorset and all the other organisations who contributed to the site. 

We would also like to say a huge thank you to the many individuals who took the time to share their stories on the website, and talk to us about their experiences.  

The focus of this website 

This website focuses primarily on autism and ADHD. This is because the All Age Neurodevelopmental Review carried out in Dorset identified a need for improved access to information and support on those conditions.  

However, the website also points people to information on a range of other conditions, to support Dorset’s wider neurodivergent community. 

The language used on this website 

We have worked in partnership with people with lived experience and healthcare professionals to co-produce the text for this website. 

The site is designed to provide an accessible, credible source of information for everyone in Dorset. The language we use reflects that, and all the text should be clear and easy to understand. 

Language around neurodiversity is evolving, but it is important that we use a consistent set of words and phrases on this website that those with lived experience have agreed are respectful, positive and inclusive.

We recognise people may use a range of terms to describe themselves and others. Sometimes people may use the wrong terminology without realising, and that’s okay. We will keep educating people in our communities to create more inclusive and accepting places. 

Third party links

Our website contains links to websites that are owned and operated by third parties. These links are provided for your information only and are not an endorsement by NHS Dorset of the content of the website or the organisation that owns the website. NHS Dorset has no control over the content of any linked website and is not responsible for these websites. Similarly, NHS Dorset does not endorse any advertisements that external websites may carry.

Tell us what you think

This is a new resource and we would love to hear your views on whether it is easy to use and provides the right information. We will review all feedback provided and make changes as needed. We will also develop and add to the site in the future, to continue to meet the needs of the local neurodivergent community.