New Neurodiversity and Emotional Wellbeing Service pilot launched for families in Cumberland
Cumberland Council, in partnership with local NHS services, have announced the launch of a new Neurodiversity and Emotional Wellbeing Service.
The service is being piloted for an initial 12 months in the Cumberland and Eden areas from November 2025, and has been developed with the support of SENDAC, the statutory parent/ carer forum for Cumbria.
The service will focus on early intervention and prevention, offering support at soon as needs are noticed. It will provide support, advice and guidance to families with children who have needs related to neurodivergence or emotional wellbeing.
This includes children from 0-19, or young people up to aged 25 who have a diagnosed special educational need or disability. The Service team is made up of two Social Prescribers, five Support Workers, a Health & Wellbeing Coach, three Emotional Resilience Nurses, a Clinical Psychologist, and an Assistant Psychologist who can provide clinical support and guidance when needed.
The service has:
A Neurodiversity and Emotional Wellbeing section on the Cumberland Family Hubs website which has information, advice, and strategies to support families. This includes on areas such as managing emotions, communication, and managing daily life including eating and sleeping.
A single point of contact for parents, carers, young people, and professionals to contact the service to receive further advice and support.
A new strength and needs assessment that can be completed with families to understand each child or young person and plan the right support.
Councillor Justin McDermott, Executive Member for Public Health and Communities for Cumberland Council, said: "The launch of this service could not be more timely as we are aware of the national and local rise in demand for support related to children and young people with neurodivergence and emotional wellbeing needs.
"We are extremely proud of this new service; the team have worked incredibly hard to ensure it is co-designed with families, and will continue to develop the service as more young people and families interact with the team.
"I am hopeful that this pilot will provide more awareness, support and acceptance for young people and their families in Cumberland and Eden, to allow them to fulfil their full potential and thrive at home and in school."