Ubuntu Neurodiversity Support Network CIC (UNDSN) was created from lived experience and a belief that no family should have to navigate neurodiversity, services, stigma or isolation alone.
We are a community-focused organisation supporting neurodivergent people and their families, with particular awareness of the experiences of ethnic minority and low-income communities.
Our approach recognises that every person, family and community is different. Culture matters. Lived experience matters. Being listened to matters.
Understanding Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity is a way of describing the natural differences in how people think, learn, communicate, process information and experience the world.
You may hear words such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia or dyspraxia. Sometimes families notice differences in everyday life before they know the terminology or have a diagnosis.
What might families notice?
Every person is different, but some things families may notice include:
- finding changes in routine difficult
- becoming overwhelmed by noise, lights, crowds, touch or certain textures
- communicating or interacting with others differently
- finding it difficult to concentrate, organise tasks or follow several instructions at once
- needing more time to process information
- becoming deeply focused on particular interests
Neurodivergent people can also have many strengths. These may include creativity, strong memory, attention to detail, determination, problem-solving and different ways of seeing the world.
There is no single way to be neurodivergent. People experience these differences in different ways and may need different types or levels of support.
Recognising some of these characteristics does not necessarily mean that someone has a particular condition or diagnosis.
Our Story
UNDSN grew from first-hand experience of raising and caring for a neurodivergent child and navigating the challenges that can come with diagnosis, education, healthcare, social care, understanding and acceptance.
That experience highlighted how difficult it can be for families to know where to turn, what support is available and how to make their voices heard — particularly when cultural differences, stigma, language, financial pressures or lack of information create additional barriers.
UNDSN was created to help make that journey less isolating.
What Matters to Us
We want families to feel heard, informed, included and empowered.
Our work aims to bring together practical information, culturally responsive support, advocacy, education, community connection and lived experience.
We also want to work alongside families, professionals, community organisations and other services to identify gaps, strengthen understanding and develop meaningful responses to the needs of neurodivergent people and their families.
Our Vision
A society where neurodivergent people and their families are understood, valued, included and empowered to thrive.
Ubuntu Neurodiversity Support Network CIC 