Neurodivergent Voices Of Ayrshire

L is for Lived Experience! This week’s A–Z of Neurodivergence post explores why listening to real voices matters, how lived experience challenges stereotypes, and how it can shape more inclusive, supportive environments.

We’re proud to celebrate NEST team member Celine Dyer’s nomination for the National Diversity Awards. Her lived experience, humility and community‑focused work are being recognised nationally.

Today we’re spotlighting the Ayrshire Adult ADHD Peer Support Network (AAAPSN), a volunteer‑led community supporting adults with ADHD across Ayrshire. With welcoming groups in North, South and East Ayrshire — including quiet, low‑sensory sessions — AAAPSN offers connection, understanding and a safe space for adults to share experiences without judgement.

Sophie is an autistic woman, a mum and a dedicated nurse. In this powerful lived‑experience video, she shares her journey with honesty and warmth. Her story highlights the importance of understanding, community support and celebrating different ways of communicating and connecting.

Meet Duncan — a personal trainer from Ayrshire who grew up not knowing he had ADHD. His story is honest, open and full of hope. From school struggles to finding confidence through diagnosis and understanding, Duncan’s journey shows how powerful it can be when someone finally feels seen. 💙

Autism Support Ayrshire provides free, confidential advice for autistic individuals, families and professionals across Ayrshire. In this Service Spotlight, Patsy shares how the team uses lived experience, local knowledge and a commitment to inclusion to make support accessible to everyone — no diagnosis required.

Claire is the mum of two neurodivergent boys, and her journey has been full of advocacy, learning, isolation, strength and love. In this lived‑experience story, she shares the realities many families face — and the hope that keeps them moving forward.

CentreStage is more than a community arts organisation — it’s a place where everyone is invited to express themselves, connect and feel at home. In this Service Spotlight, Cailean shares how creativity, inclusion and community come together under one roof, and why CentreStage is such an important space for neurodivergent individuals and families across Ayrshire.

Meet ASN Support Ayrshire — a local charity creating safe, supportive spaces for families with additional support needs. From 24/7 online support to their Education Hub in North Ayrshire, they’re building real community, connection and understanding. 💙💚💜

Discover Karen’s journey to an ADHD diagnosis at 62, and how understanding herself brought clarity, strength and self‑compassion during Neurodiversity Celebration Week.

At NEST, we believe every story matters. Real experiences can help others feel understood, supported, and less alone. That’s why we’re creating a series of videos to celebrate the voices of our community and shine a light on neurodevelopmental differences (NDD). 🎥 What’s This Project About? As part of Neurodiversity Celebration week, we are looking to celebrate local neurodivergent people by sharing some short videos of people talking about their strengths and successes, or

Last week, NEST joined partners at Prestwick Airport’s Accessibility Forum to share ideas and feedback on making travel more inclusive. From improved signage to staff training, find out what’s changing — and how you can help shape a more accessible South Ayrshire.

David, our Programme Lead at NEST, shares a raw and relatable insight into what a “bad day” with ADHD feels like—and how he’s learned to accept and navigate those moments with self-compassion.

What’s one word that describes neurodiversity to you? Our community shared their answers, and they’re as diverse and powerful as the people who shared them. Let’s explore the meanings behind the words that matter. 🌈

Meet Malysha, a sibling carer with a powerful story of love, growth, and neurodiversity. Her brothers have shaped her world — and helped her shape others’.

💪 Embracing neurodivergence with strength and confidence—just like Billie Eilish! Accepting every part of who we are is the key to finding peace and power. 🌈💖

💜 Meet Celine, one of our inspiring project coordinators at NEST. Her story is a powerful reminder of the strength, insight, and empathy that come with being neurodivergent. 🌟

What do neurodivergent people wish you knew? Real voices share real insights—from empathy and patience to the power of thinking differently.

🌟 Discover how Onthank Primary and Supported Learning Centre are championing neurodiversity through creativity and compassion! Watch their inspiring video and celebrate the power of inclusive education. 🎬💙

💜 Meet Angus—a young voice kicking off Neurodiversity Celebration Week 2025 with honesty and heart. His story reminds us that being different is something to be proud of. 💙