Welcome to Yorkshire
News • September 11th, 2026
|A new initiative has been launched in York to provide essential support for neurodivergent residents, including those with autism and ADHD. This initiative, delivered by the award-winning charity Daisy Chain, aims to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for individuals who may struggle with their mental health due to their neurodivergent conditions.
Peer Support Services Available
The support services are part of the Connecting Our City project, which focuses on building a community-based network to assist residents with mental health concerns. These services are designed for adults aged 18 and over who either self-identify as autistic or having ADHD, those with a formal diagnosis, or individuals who are currently awaiting assessment.
The offerings from Daisy Chain include:
Peer support drop-in sessions
Bookable one-to-one appointments
Advice and information
Workshops titled ‘Understanding Myself’
This free service is a significant step towards enhancing the wellbeing of neurodivergent individuals in York, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and mental health awareness.
Voices Behind the Initiative
Key figures in the York Mental Health Partnership have expressed their support for this initiative. Professor Lynne Gabriel OBE and Dr Steve Wright, co-chairs of the partnership, highlighted the importance of this support, stating:
“Neurodivergent people and those with ADHD are more likely to struggle to manage their mental health. With increased knowledge, awareness and more diagnoses, this is essential support to help people optimise their wellbeing.”
They noted that the peer-led approach ensures that support is both compassionate and practical.
Cllr Lucy Steels-Walshaw, the Executive Member for Health and Wellbeing at City of York Council, also commented on the significance of this initiative:
“The Connecting Our City partnership continues to find thoughtful and practical ways to support neurodiverse people, building on the goals of our All-Age Autism and ADHD Strategy.”
This strategy aims to improve support for individuals regardless of whether they have received an official diagnosis.
Collaboration for Better Support
Lisa Pope, Director of Commissioning for York and North Yorkshire at NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, praised the collaboration between various organisations:
“This is an excellent example of what can be achieved when health, care and community organisations work together. By building a network of accessible, community-based support alongside people with lived experience, we can help ensure neurodivergent residents have the right support, at the right time, in a way that works for them.”
How to Access Support
Residents interested in accessing these services can reach out to Daisy Chain directly. They can do this by:
Calling 01642 531248 (option 2)
Emailing york.support@daisychainproject.co.uk
Completing the referral form available at Daisy Chain’s website
This initiative not only addresses the immediate need for mental health support among neurodivergent individuals but also fosters a sense of community and understanding in York.
Community Involvement
The Connecting Our City project involves various partners, including residents with lived experience, advocacy services, and local organisations. Some of the notable members include:
York St John University’s Converge and the Communities Centre
Healthwatch York
NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board
York Carer’s Centre
York Centre for Voluntary Service
York MIND
This collaborative effort ensures that the services provided are tailored to meet the specific needs of neurodivergent residents, enhancing their quality of life and mental health.
As this initiative continues to develop, it represents a hopeful step towards a more inclusive York, where individuals can find the support they need in their community. The focus on peer support not only helps those in need but also promotes a greater understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity in society.
