About us
Creating space for neurodivergent people to feel seen, supported, and empowered
Because the world isn’t always designed with them in mind so, we’re building something that is.
At The Neurodivergence Project, we support neurodivergent individuals through experiences that build confidence, connection, and a sense of belonging. Our programmes centre around sailing and outdoor exploration – offering something different from the environments many are used to.
As a new organisation, we’re continuing to grow. Alongside our trips, we’re building wider support – signposting to counselling, sharing wellbeing guidance, and offering practical resources for individuals and families. This is a growing space – shaped by lived experience and the belief that everyone deserves support in a way that fits.
Why We're Needed?
Neurodivergent individuals often face significant barriers to accessing education, employment, and meaningful social inclusion. Whether due to diagnosed or undiagnosed conditions, or co-existing mental health and health-related challenges, many find themselves excluded from systems in the UK that were never designed to celebrate their strengths.
This exclusion can lead to isolation, with individuals – and sometimes their families – feeling unsupported. For some, it means unsuitable school or workplace environments, social stigma, or bullying. For others, it means facing long waits for support or having to seek out alternative provision when mainstream systems fall short.
Facing the Facts
Around 15% of people in the UK are neurodivergent
This includes, but isn’t limited to, autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and acquired or traumatic brain injuries.
1 in 5 children are persistently absent from school
Often linked to unmet neurodivergent needs, leading to higher exclusion rates and disrupted education.
Social isolation and public stigma remain widespread
Many neurodivergent individuals face exclusion across school, work, and everyday social settings.
Only 37% of neurodivergent individuals are employed
This is compared to 81% of the general population, highlighting significant employment disparities.
Lack of support harms family wellbeing deeply
94% of families say limited support for neurodivergent children causes mental health challenges for child and family.
Systems aren't built for neurodivergent minds
Accessing support or speaking up can be daunting, especially when processes favour neurotypical behaviours.
The Difference We Hope to Make
We’re creating space where neurodivergent individuals feel not only included, but genuinely understood. Through sail training and time outdoors, we offer more than adventure – we create shared experiences that build trust, strengthen communication, and open the door to self-discovery.
It’s about more than learning to sail – it’s about navigating life with a stronger sense of self, community, and confidence. Our goal is simple: to help people feel proud of who they are and supported in where they’re going.
Development Programmes
Sailing and outdoor experiences that build confidence, life skills and meaningful connections.
Volunteer With Us
Use your skills, or lived experience to support our work - on the water, in the outdoors or behind the scenes.
Founder & Chair
Matt was diagnosed with brain cancer at a young age, resulting in an acquired brain injury. Later in adulthood, he also received diagnoses of ADHD and ASC. While those brought clarity, they didn’t make it any easier to be understood – in school, in support systems, or in professional settings.
He knows what it’s like to fall through the gaps – to be expected to adapt to systems that weren’t built with him in mind.
This project grew from those experiences – shaped by years of volunteering, working, and finding space to reflect while out on the water and in the outdoors.
Too many people are still facing the same barriers – and that’s why this work matters.
It’s about building something real, shaped by the people it’s for. Matt is proud to be working alongside others who believe in that.
Trustees & Advisors
Nicola
Matt
Doug
Liam
Vision
We want to live in a world where every neurodivergent person feels confident, connected, and fully included - outdoors, in their communities, and in their lives.
Our Values
Inclusive
We welcome every form of neurodivergence and work to remove barriers so more people can take part.
Lived Experience
Everything we do is shaped by the voices and experiences of neurodivergent people.
Reflective
We stay open to growth, listening, learning, and evolving alongside the people we support.
Collaborative
We build change together with individuals, families, and partners across our community.
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