Led by NHS Frimley, a new Partnership Plan for neurodiversity is bringing together local services, professionals and communities. The aim is to enhance support for neurodivergent children and young people and their families in Slough, Bracknell Forest and the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead.

The Network of Voice Associates is a key part of helping to deliver that plan and is primarily aimed at local voluntary and community organisations whose work brings them into contact with neurodivergent children and young people (up to age 25) and their parents or carers.

We’re now inviting grassroots organisations to join the network and play an active role in shaping positive change in East Berkshire. All the network’s activities are designed to make participation feel meaningful and manageable, even for small or volunteer-led organisations.

Of course, we know insight doesn’t only come from the outside – it often sits within our own teams. That’s why we would particularly welcome the input of neurodivergent staff and volunteers in helping shape new tools and resources.

While organisations will form the core of the network, it is also open to individuals with lived experience who want to stay connected, learn and share their perspectives.

Together, we can help ensure the voices of neurodivergent children and young people and parents/carers are heard, valued and reflected in future services.

Too often, feedback is collected from communities but never makes it into the system in a meaningful way. This network will change that by creating clear, two-way communication between communities and decision-makers.

By taking part, you’ll help:

• Amplify underrepresented voices, especially of those with lived experience of neurodivergence
• Shape how the new partnership plan is delivered – ensuring services are more inclusive, relevant and grounded in real experiences
• Translate system language into accessible updates, so communities stay informed and empowered
• Model inclusion from within, by involving neurodivergent staff and volunteers in shaping the work
• Raise urgent issues and everyday insights, through informal online drop-ins and open conversations

This is about more than just consultation. It’s about building long-term relationships, growing confidence and making change feel possible and shared.

Who runs the network?

The network is run by a Community Coordination Panel made up of:

• Brighter Futures Together (lead organisation)
• Parenting Special Children
• The Autism Group
• Together As One

These organisations bring deep community connection:

• Brighter Futures Together is a not-for-profit organisation led by a neurodivergent CEO, with a team rooted in lived experience.
• Parenting Special Children and The Autism Group were both founded by parent-carers of neurodivergent children. Grounded in insights gathered from families, these two organisations have 30 years’ operational experience between them.
• Together As One brings strong expertise in youth voice and equity led change.

The panel manages the network, shares updates from NHS Frimley and ensures community understanding and learning feeds directly into the partnership plan.