Routes and Routines: a resource for children, young people and their families

With exams, school, college, university or training coming to a close at this time of year, youngsters are looking ahead to a move into Year 7. This big transition can be stressful for a young person. It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions about moving to a new school. For some, it's exciting; for others, it might feel stressful.

West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership have launched new Autism and ADHD resources, initiated by the West Yorkshire Neurodiversity Programme and developed in co-production with professionals, children, young people, and families.

The West Yorkshire Neurodiversity Programme, in partnership with All Star, has been working to create high-quality, practical, and accessible resources to support neurodivergent individuals and their families across Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds, and Wakefield.

These efforts are part of our ongoing commitment to build an inclusive and supportive community, embracing neurodiversity to empower individuals, and foster collaboration between professionals, families, and those with lived experience through the #AutismADHDAllies campaign.

Through consultation and research, three key topics were identified: transition, sleep, and food. The new resources include videos, booklets, and audio formats designed to help children, young people and their families in the key topic areas.

Lucy Rushworth, Neurodiversity Project Manager for the West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership, said: "What really stands out for me about this work is that the materials were truly co-produced from the very beginning.

“We listened to and gathered a wide range of voices and experiences, which has helped shape resources that are genuinely useful. Importantly, the topics were chosen by the public, focusing on areas where self-help and guidance are currently lacking.

“Our aim is to empower children and young people to feel independent and supported as they navigate life’s challenges. In the episodes on transitions, sleep, and eating, we’ve included a variety of tips and suggestions to help children and young people find what works best for them. I especially appreciate the emphasis on reducing pressure and encouraging them to take their own path.

“What I really value is that the information is grounded in lived experience. It’s been created to be beneficial for all - not just for neurodiverse children and young people. We were also committed to making the content fully accessible to different learning needs, which is why it’s available in a range of formats, including videos (with and without subtitles and background audio), booklets (with images and plain text), and audio recordings."

Watch the first video of the series on #SchoolTransitions to find out more.

Together, let’s make a difference for neurodivergent communities across West Yorkshire. Visit our Routes and Routines webpages for more.