Welcome to the Different Brains Group

Neurodiverse parents often face unique challenges balancing work, family, and their own needs. The Different Brains Group offers a safe, welcoming space where neurodiverse minds can come together, share experiences, and find support. Founded by Steph and Claire, two neurodiverse parents from North Yorkshire, this group grew from their work on the podcast SEND it - Brains at Work. They bring honest stories and practical advice about parenting neurodiverse children while managing their own neurodiversities and full-time jobs. Set against the beautiful backdrop of God’s Own Country, their group celebrates the energy and chaos of neurodiverse lives with warmth and openness.

Why the Different Brains Group Exists

Steph and Claire started the Different Brains Group because they saw a gap in support for neurodiverse parents juggling multiple roles. Parenting children with autism, ADHD, or dyslexia while managing workplace demands is not easy. Many workplaces still lack proper accessibility and workplace adjustments, making it harder for neurodiverse adults to thrive. The group aims to change that by:

• Creating a safe space where neurodiverse parents can connect without judgment

• Sharing real-life stories about the ups and downs of neurodiverse parenting

• Offering practical tips for managing work and home life with neurodiversity

• Raising awareness about the need for workplace adjustments and accessibility

  
  

This group is not just about challenges. It’s about celebrating strengths, sharing ideas, and building a community that understands the unique experience of neurodiverse families.

What You Can Expect from the Group

Joining the Different Brains Group means stepping into a lively, honest, and supportive environment. Steph and Claire’s Yorkshire roots bring a down-to-earth, energetic vibe that welcomes everyone. Here’s what members can look forward to:

• Open discussions about autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurodiverse conditions

• Sharing strategies for managing sensory overload, executive function challenges, and emotional regulation

• Tips for requesting and negotiating workplace adjustments that really work

• Ideas for creating accessible home and work environments

• Support for navigating the complexities of parenting neurodiverse children

• Opportunities to connect with others who truly understand the neurodiverse experience

  
  

Steph and Claire also share their own stories, showing how they balance full-time work with parenting and their own neurodiversities. Their honesty helps members feel less alone and more empowered.

Practical Tips for Thriving at Work and Home

One of the group’s strengths is its focus on practical advice. Here are some examples of the kind of support you’ll find:

• Workplace adjustments: How to ask for flexible hours, quiet workspaces, or clear communication methods that suit your needs

• Managing sensory overload: Techniques like noise-cancelling headphones, scheduled breaks, or calming routines

• Organisational tools: Using planners, apps, or visual schedules to manage time and tasks effectively

• Parenting strategies: Approaches to support neurodiverse children’s learning and emotional needs without burnout

• Self-care: Finding time for rest and activities that recharge your energy

  
  

These tips come from lived experience and research, making them practical and realistic for busy neurodiverse parents.

Building Awareness and Changing Workplaces

Steph and Claire are passionate about improving workplaces for neurodiverse employees. Many workplaces still lack understanding and proper accessibility, which can lead to stress and missed opportunities. The Different Brains Group encourages members to:

• Share their experiences with workplace adjustments to help others advocate for themselves

• Educate employers about the benefits of neurodiversity and the importance of accessibility

• Promote inclusive policies that recognize different ways of working and thinking

  
  

By building a community of informed, confident neurodiverse parents, the group hopes to influence workplaces to become more welcoming and supportive.

Join the Different Brains Group Today

If you are a neurodiverse parent trying to balance work and family, the Different Brains Group offers a place to belong. Steph and Claire invite you to join their energetic, honest, and supportive community.

Together, this group is more than just a support network. It’s a movement to bring visibility to neurodiversity and create spaces where everyone can succeed.