Three creative workshops will be running over the summer holidays in Flitwick, inspired by young people, and completely free to attend. These will give young people the chance to make friends, discover their strengths and build confidence, and help shape a space where they feel comfortable to be themselves.
Support group for neurodivergent young people
That’s why we’ve created a welcoming space for neurodivergent young people, including those with ADHD, autism, dyslexia or on the pathway.
- Explore their identity
- Build strategies to support their wellbeing
- Meet others who just get it
Whether your young person has a diagnosis, is waiting for one, or just doesn’t feel like they fit in, they’re welcome here. If they’d feel more comfortable coming along with a friend, that’s no problem , they’ll just need to sign up too
These sessions are completely free, thanks to the generous support of the ASDA Foundation, and we’d love your help spreading the word to any young person who might benefit.
What to expect
Our group is different to your usual support group. Each week mixes creative activities with a relaxed, youth club feel, and the sessions are shaped by the young people who come along.
- Neurodiversity, identity, and personal strengths
- Coping skills for emotional regulation
- Self-understanding, confidence, and connection
Whether a young person fancies getting creative, playing games, having a chat, or just taking some time out, there’s something for everyone. It’s a safe and supportive group where young people can be themselves, meet others and try things out at their own pace.
Key info
Location: The Rufus Centre, Flitwick
Dates: Fridays throughout August- 15th, 22nd and 29th.
Time: Between 2pm-5pm. Each session lasts approximately 1.5 hours
Cost: Free – all materials and snacks provided
Consent: Parent/carer consent form required in advance
Who it’s for
- Young people aged 13+, including those in Years 7–9 and 10–13
- Neurodivergent teens or those exploring their identity — no diagnosis needed
- Anyone feeling bored, disconnected, or looking for something meaningful to do this summer
- Young people who want to meet new people, learn more about themselves, and build confidence in who they are
- Past BrightPaths mentees welcome
- Friends can attend too (with sign-up)
Weekly themes and activities
Each session is shaped by the young people attending. Activities are creative, sensory-friendly, and designed to support emotional wellbeing in a relaxed way. There’s no pressure to join in, young people can take part in whatever way feels right for them.
01. Week 1: “This Is Me”
Identity, expression, and self-understanding – A chance to explore who you are, and celebrate it.
- Mask making (exploring masking/unmasking)
- “About Me” posters
- Scrapbooking, journaling or other crafts with a neuro-affirmative focus.
02. Week 2: “Calm Me”
Regulation, mindfulness, and stress relief. Learn what helps you feel calm, safe, and in control.
- DIY stress balls, sensory bottles, or slime
- Mindful colouring and decompression zone
- Affirmation bracelets
03. Week 3: “Together”
Connection, self-esteem, and celebration – Celebrate your strengths and the power of being part of something.
- Collaborative mural on ND strengths
- Kindness card game design
- Celebration wall for proud moments
Every session includes a mix of structured and flexible activities, with quiet zones, sensory tools, and space to decompress. Participation is always optional; young people can engage in the way that works best for them.
Share with friends, family, or professionals supporting neurodivergent young people.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. These are youth-led sessions designed to support peer connection and independence. A signed parent/carer consent form is required in advance.
Not at all. Whether they have a diagnosis, are awaiting one, or simply feel like they fit in elsewhere, they’re welcome here.
– Bring a friend (who must also sign up)
– Arrive early to settle in
– Speak to us beforehand about any support needs
We provide snacks, but young people are welcome to bring their own. Please let us know about any allergies or dietary requirements in advance.
Yes. The sessions are designed to be inclusive and sensory-aware. We offer:
– Quiet zones with space to decompress
– Fidget tools available
– A wide range of creative and calming activities to suit different needs
– Flexible participation, young people can opt in or out as they choose
We recommend bringing your own headphones or ear defenders if these help with regulation.
Yes. Sessions are run by trained BrightPaths youth practitioners who are DBS-checked with relevant safeguarding training. We maintain safe staffing ratios and follow robust policies to ensure everyone feels safe and supported.
Each session starts with a gentle introduction to the theme. Activities include crafts, games, and discussions, all shaped by the young people. There’s time to connect, snack, and decompress. Participation is flexible.
Ideally, yes. But if you can only make it to 2 /3 , that’s fine, just let us know in advance.
Only with your permission. We know that not everyone is comfortable being photographed, and we’ll always respect your preferences.
That said, photos play an important role in helping us show the impact of our work to funders and supporters, and without that support, we wouldn’t be able to offer free activities like this.
We may take group photos during sessions to capture the spirit of the space. These are used sensitively and never include names or identifying details. If you’d prefer your child not to appear in any photos, just let us know in the sign-up form, and if you’d like faces blurred in group shots, we’re happy to do that too.
BrightPaths Support CIC is a local non-profit supporting children and young people’s emotional wellbeing, proudly founded and led by neurodivergent staff and those with lived experience in neurodivergent families.
We offer early, non-clinical support that’s flexible, neurodivergent-affirming, and grounded in what young people tell us they need. Our team is fully DBS-checked, trained in safeguarding and child protection, and recruited in line with our Safer Recruitment Policy, so families can feel confident that every session is safe, supportive, and professionally run.
Next Steps
Questions?
Email us at support@brightpaths.org.uk
Help us spread the word!
Share with friends, family, or professionals supporting neurodivergent young people.
After signing up, you’ll receive a confirmation email within a few days. We’ll follow up with exact session times once registration closes.
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