Resources for: Neurodiversity and Age 5-11

Neurodiversity is a word used to explain the unique ways people’s brains work. While everyone’s brain develops similarly, no two brains function just alike. Being neurodivergent means having a brain that works differently from the average or “neurotypical” person. This may be differences in social preferences, ways of learning, ways of communicating and/or ways of perceiving the environment. Because of this, a neurodivergent person has different struggles and unique strengths. People who are neurodivergent can benefit from education and programs that help them develop their strengths using them to their benefit to live happy, healthy lives.        Reference

12. Awestruck Academy

Awestruck Academy Creative Arts and Media Centre

Awestruck Academy is a vibrant creative centre in Clydebank offering free or low-cost classes in music, art, media, digital tech, gaming, and podcasting to all ages. They host community events, exhibitions, and a dedicated “Gaming Zone” with consoles and VR—alongside a coffee bar, creche, and chess club. Their friendly, inclusive space fosters confidence, creativity, and community connection.

Web: www.awestruck-academy.org.uk/

Services & somewhere to go Self referral Local Costs money
31. Centre 81

Centre 81

Centre 81 is a community hub in Whitecrook, Clydebank. It offers a wide range of activities and services for all ages, including fitness classes, IT and art workshops, a low-cost gym (Gym81), a café (Café81), and rooms for hire. The centre also hosts the ISARO Community Initiative, providing support for ethnic minorities, and Social Security Scotland's Local Delivery Service, assisting with benefit applications. 

Phone: 0141 533 7070

Web: www.clydebank-ha.org.uk/community/centre81/

Services & somewhere to go Self referral Local Costs money
32. Childline No Text

Childline

Childline is a free, confidential service for children and young people under 19 in the UK. Whether you're feeling happy, sad, confused, or worried, you can talk to a trained counsellor anytime day or night by calling, chatting online, or sending an email. They can help with anything, from bullying and family problems to mental health and self-harm. You can also use tools like the Mood Journal, Calm Zone, and message boards to express yourself and find support.

 

Helpline number: 0800 11 11

Web: www.childline.org.uk

Helpline Online Telephone National Free
40. Clifftops

Clifftops Project

Clifftop Projects CIC is a community arts organisation in West Dunbartonshire offering free, inclusive creative activities for all ages. They run Art Youth Clubs (ages 5–18), an Intergenerational Dance Company, monthly youth creative nights (ages 13–25), and regular art challenges and workshops with local artists. Through projects like Creative Mental Health, they use art and dance to support emotional wellbeing and bring people together across generations.

Web: www.clifftopprojects.co.uk/

Services & somewhere to go Self referral Local Free
86. Lifelink No Text

Lifelink

A confidential counselling service accessed through West Dunbartonshire secondary schools, where young people can chat to a counsellor to help manage personal and social issues which may be affecting their life. 

Web: https://www.lifelink.org.uk/

Services & somewhere to go School Referral Local Free
103. National Autistic Society With Text

National Autistic Society West Dunbartonshire

The leading UK charity supporting people on the autism spectrum and their families. The site offers a wealth of information, resources, and practical advice on living with autism, including guidance on education, employment, health, and social inclusion. It also provides details on local services and support networks.

Web: https://www.autism.org.uk/

Services & somewhere to go Online Self referral Telephone National Free
118. Reach

Reach

For advice about rights to education and support for children in Scotland. REACH can help you understand your rights to support with your learning and your rights to be included, listened to and involved in decisions about your education.

 

 

Web: www.reach.scot/

Website Online Self referral National Free
Tullochan Logo OG

Tullochan

Tullochan supports both young people aged 5-25 and those aged 25+ through a range of development programmes delivered from our Tullochan Training Academy, within Primary/Secondary schools or through their Social Enterprises. Programmes such as Timber Transitions, Furniture Fix, Gardening & Landscaping, Personal Development, Work Placements within their cafe 'The Common Good', or Employability sessions are on offer, alongside LGBTQ+ Youth Action Group and High School Drop-in Youth Club. Their support allows young people and the wider community to improve their mental health and wellbeing, break down barriers and progress positively into education, employment or training.

Web: www.tullochan.org/

Website Services & somewhere to go Online Professional referral School Referral Self referral Telephone Local Free
Internet Matters Logo

Internet Matters

dedicated to helping children and young people aged 3-18 stay safe online. They provide free, expert-backed resources tailored to different ages, online activities, and specific needs, including support for neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, and care-experienced children. Their tools include age-specific guides, conversation starters, and digital safety checklists, all designed to empower parents, carers, and professionals to navigate the digital world confidently 

Web: https://www.internetmatters.org/

Website Online National Free
ND Assess Children Image

Neurodevelopmental Assessment Appointment Information for Children

This leaflet explains what to expect during a fun meeting with our team in West Dunbartonshire, where you’ll do activities like looking at pictures, playing with toys, and solving puzzles. You can also tell us what you like and don't like to do, and ask us questions. 

Services & somewhere to go Download Local Free
New SAMH Logo

The Nook

The Nook is a welcoming, walk‑in mental health hub in Glasgow offering free, stigma‑free support, resources, wellbeing activities and therapeutic sessions for young people aged 10+, adults and families. No referral or appointment is needed.

 

Web: https://www.samh.org.uk/about-us/the-nook

Services & somewhere to go Self referral Local Free