Our team, Celine, Alison, Kirsty and Lizzy, were delighted to attend Scotland's first-ever National Neurodiversity Show. With over 800 people in attendance, it was an inspiring day of learning, connection and celebration, made even more special by meeting so many familiar faces from across 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. 💙

Fern Brady’s words — “I always knew I was different, and now I know there’s a name for it” — capture an experience shared by many neurodivergent people. In this post, we explore why her message is so powerful, and how understanding our brains brings clarity, confidence and belonging.

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.

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

Celebrate Neurodiversity Celebration Week with a look at Ashley Storrie’s reflections on different perspectives, creative problem‑solving and the strengths of neurodivergent minds.

D is for Disclosure! In this week’s A–Z of Neurodivergence post, we explore why sharing your neurodivergent identity can feel complex, why both disclosure and privacy are valid choices, and how to approach these conversations with confidence and support.

Hi, I’m Lizzy! 👋 I’m really proud to be the Neurodevelopmental Learning and Development Advisor for NEST. When I first saw this role advertised, it honestly felt like it had been written just for me. I’ve always been passionate about inclusion, especially around neurodivergence, and I knew that my mix of lived experience and professional background could help make a real difference. In my role, I get to create and deliver bespoke workshops across the Health and Social Care P

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

Clare attended the ASN Family Forum last night, connecting with families and professionals to strengthen support for children and young people with additional needs. Here’s what she had to say…

Help Shape Neurodevelopmental Support in East AyrshireJoin us for follow-up engagement events across East Ayrshire to share your experiences, hear updates, and influence future support for children and young people with neurodevelopmental differences.

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.

Over 100 parents and carers in East Ayrshire shared their experiences and ideas for better neurodevelopmental support. This new report highlights what matters most to them — from clearer information to more inclusive services. 💬💙

Your voice matters. Join the conversation on creating a safe space for neurodiverse voices in South Ayrshire.

Representation isn’t just about visibility—it’s about value. Here’s why it’s so important for neurodivergent people to be seen, heard, and authentically portrayed across all areas of life. 💬💙