A community group from Catterick is using play and art sessions to help unlock the world of neuro diverse children.

Volunteers at Neuro Diverse Community Catterick (NDCC) have found that when children at their sessions for armed forces families in North Yorkshire become focussed on projects, they are better able to communicate.

Coding, gardening, art and Lego in particular have proved popular and a £500 grant from Broadacres,  through our Community Development Fund, will ensure the Community Interest Company can re-stock on supplies and continue to deliver support.

“Lego is great for helping 5-10 years olds develop their fine motor skills and for teenagers it allows them to focus on a project and problem solve,” said NDCC Managing Director Lesley Collier.

“Whilst doing this we find they open up and we can have conversations about any challenges they are facing.”

Lego sessions have proved so beneficial the organisation’s youth lead is to undergo training as a Lego therapist.

NDCC provides a wide range of support and activities in various locations to families of children, adults and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities and who are neurodivergent.

Lesley explained that this support also extends well beyond North Yorkshire.

“Our help never comes to an end, if families are posted abroad they can continue to be part of our community through online sessions, Facebook and other social media groups,” she said.

“Maintaining that network is important because families will often return to this area in the future.”

Families who have SEND children and are due to be posted to Catterick can also get in touch in advance for support and advice on the help available.

Lesley added: “We cannot do this work without our brilliant volunteers and grants from groups like Broadacres.”

To find out more about the group visit www.neurodiverse-community.co.uk  or email  info@neurodiverse-community.co.uk

The Broadacres Community Development Fund supports local organisations, groups, and projects in areas where Broadacres has homes. All grants are approved by the Association’s own residents. To apply to the fund visit our Community Development Fund page.