Liverpool Unveils 10-Year Bold Plan for Neurodiverse Residents
Liverpool’s ambitious plan to transform support for neurodivergent people will officially launch on Tuesday 24 March 2026.
The new strategy, titled Liverpool’s Commitment to Neurodiversity: A Strategy for an Inclusive City 2025–2035, will be unveiled during the Annual Neurodiversity Symposium at the University of Liverpool.
The launch event brings together a wide range of leaders from health, education, employment, and the voluntary sector.
They will join policymakers, researchers, and experts with lived-experience to share insights and explore opportunities for collective action across systems.
Addressing the Barriers to Inclusion
Research indicates that neurodivergent individuals in Liverpool continue to face significant barriers in areas including education, employment, and access to health services.
With an estimated 70,000 neurodivergent residents in the city, a figure likely higher due to barriers to diagnosis, the strategy recognises an urgent need for action.
The 10-year plan covers support for those with Autism, ADHD, Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, and Tourette’s Syndrome.
Keynote speaker Aidy Smith, an award-winning broadcaster and the only global TV presenter with Tourette Syndrome and ADHD, will join the symposium virtually to share his perspective as a “leading voice in neurodiversity awareness.”
A Collaborative Vision for the Next Decade
The strategy was co-produced with partners across Merseyside and shaped directly by the insights of neurodivergent people, their families, and carers.
This collaborative approach ensures that the final plan is rooted in real-world experiences.
Councillor Angela Coleman, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, highlighted the importance of this shared effort:
“Developing this strategy alongside our partners across Merseyside has been an important and collaborative process.
“Being able to launch it at an event that brings together organisations, professionals and community voices who share a commitment to improving the lives of neurodivergent people is a significant moment for our city.
“I would like to express my sincere thanks to the residents of Liverpool who shared their lived experiences.
“Your insights have shaped this strategy.
“Your contribution ensures we are working towards a city where neurodivergent people are recognised, supported and able to thrive.”
Professor Laura Harkness, Pro-Vice Chancellor at the University of Liverpool, added:
“The symposium, first launched at the University of Liverpool in 2024, is shaped by lived experience and aims to strengthen awareness, understanding and inclusion across the Higher Education sector.
“We are delighted that this year’s event provides a platform to showcase the city’s commitment to neurodiversity.
“By bringing together policymakers, sector leaders, researchers and experts by experience, the symposium creates space to share insights, celebrate best practice and explore opportunities for collective action across systems.”
Anthony Leo, Acting Place Director for Liverpool at NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, concluded:
“As an integrated care system, we recognise that neurodivergent residents form a vital part of our communities.
“This strategy sets out a clear, collaborative vision to help individuals thrive at every stage of life, representing a significant step forward in how we support neurodivergent people across Liverpool.
“By working in partnership with local organisations, communities and people with lived experience, we are committed to improving access to services, reducing inequalities, and ensuring care is more responsive, inclusive and person-centred.”
