A new community-led space is due to open in Pelaw, to support neurodivergent children who are unable to access traditional school and social environments.
The Neurothentic Network, a community interest company led by Carleigh Mcleod, Michelle Robinson and Ashleigh Carr, has recently secured its own premises to provide a calm, low-demand environment where children can feel safe enough to reconnect with learning and social experiences.
The space, which will be known as ‘The Neurothentic Space’, will offer small, supportive group sessions for children who may struggle with anxiety, school avoidance or sensory overwhelm, alongside support for parents navigating the challenges of raising neurodivergent children.
Carleigh Mcleod, of Hebburn and Managing Director of The Neurothentic Network, said: “We’ve lived this ourselves. We know what it’s like when your child doesn’t feel safe in the world outside of home, and how few places there are that truly understand that. This space has been created with that in mind — somewhere children don’t have to mask or meet expectations, they can just be themselves, learning at their own pace.”
The Neurothentic Network was founded by individuals with lived experience of autism and ADHD, both personally and as parents, and has already been supporting local families through Forest School sessions, training, social groups, and advocacy support.
Demand for their services has continued to grow, particularly among families whose children are struggling to attend school, are Home Educating or unable to access mainstream support.
Michelle Robinson, Director, added: “There is a real gap locally for children who can’t access traditional settings. Many families are left feeling isolated and unsure where to turn. We want this to be a place where both children and parents feel understood and supported.”
The new premises will allow the organisation to expand its offer, providing consistent sessions, a safe physical environment, and opportunities for families to connect with others in similar situations.
Ashleigh Carr, also from Hebburn and Advisory Board Member and Facilitator, said: “This isn’t just about creating a space, it’s about creating a community. We’re building something that we know families need, because we’ve needed it ourselves.”
As part of the expansion, The Neurothentic Network are recruiting a ‘Lead Education Facilitator’ to help shape and deliver its developing education provision. This was made possible due to successful investment from the Postcode Innovation Trust.
Those interested in applying are encouraged to get in touch to request an application pack. The organisation plans to gradually scale its provision over the coming months, working closely with families to ensure the environment and sessions meet the needs of the children attending.
For more information or to request an application pack please email: Info@neurothenticnetwork.co.uk or visit www.facebook.com/theneurothenticnetwork
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