Training and research can help our understanding of neurodevelopmental conditions. The knowledge gained can help to improve diagnosis and support offers, but also empower people to understand their own neurodevelopmental conditions, or to better understand people they know.
Training and research opportunities are always evolving as we continue to learn more. The information on this page is not a complete list but an overview of opportunities. Always ensure that any training or research opportunities are suitable for you and are from a trusted source.
Training and development
There are a range of courses and training options available for people who would like to gain a deeper understanding of neurodevelopmental conditions, either in relation to themselves or other people.
Online resources
Autism Central hubs
The hubs offer families, carers and personal assistants of autistic people high-quality and easily accessible autism education, training, and support. Dorset is covered by the South West regional hub. They offer group and one-to-one sessions run by peer educators to help parents and carers find the information and services available in your area. Hubs may also run events such as workshops, drop-in sessions, coffee mornings or virtual meet-ups.
Find out more on the Autism Central website.
Parenting support programmes
For children or young people with an autism diagnosis, parenting training programmes may be available: EarlyBird (under 5 years), EarlyBird Plus (ages 4-9) and Teen Life (ages 10-16). More information can be found on the National Autistic Society family support page.
The two councils’ websites also include details of parenting support training that may be helpful to families with neurodivergent children.
Dorset Recovery Education Centre
The Recovery Education Centre runs courses for people who are autistic and people with ADHD, as well as those supporting them. These offer an opportunity to learn more about the conditions, and to recognise the impact, challenges and strengths of living with neurodevelopmental conditions.
Training for health and care staff
The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism is the standardised training that was developed for health and social care staff to ensure they receive learning disability and autism training appropriate to their role. You can find out more about this training that staff in Dorset receive on the Health Education England website.
Research opportunities
There are a range of research opportunities linked to neurodiversity and neurodevelopmental conditions. Always make sure any research you take part in is from a trusted and credible research body.
Charities
The National Autistic Society supports research in a range of different areas. They also have an email address for autistic individuals to contact if they are interested in becoming involved in research.
Universities
Many trusted universities and charities do research about neurodiversity and neurodevelopmental conditions. Research advances and opportunities may be shared on their websites or social media.
