Neurodiversity Circle

Listening circle exploring the topic of neurodivergence This is a sharing and listening circle open to all people of any age to explore the topic of neurodiversity in all its forms. A sharing circle is held in ‘The Way of Council’ - a prompt will be offered to allow stories and experiences to arise, and we will speak one by one, with the help of a talking piece. Our hope is to help create understanding and deep listening around a topic that is often stigmatised and misinformed. This is an opportunity for everyone, especially those with quieter voices, to have a space to be heard, and a space to listen to other’s stories. The theme of the circle began after many youth advocates had spoken to each other about their own experiences with neurodiversity, and we decided we would love to have a circle specifically dedicated to sharing about the topic that shapes so much of our collective experience. Who is this for? You do not need to be diagnosed with any form of neurodivergence to join this circle, it is truly a space for everyone, including the friends and family of neurodivergent people, and each person’s experience is as valid and important as their peers’. We hope to create an environment that allows everyone to feel safe and open, able to speak authentically and feel held in their vulnerability. When is it? We will gather in the cosy Bridgetown yurt on October 31st 2026 from 5:30pm untill 8.30pm, tea and refreshments will be included. How much does it cost? The cost is free or by donation and has been generously funded by northbrook Community trust. Please contact any of the facilitators below if you have any questions or concerns we are happy to be in touch. Heidi: +447891062769 Or email [email protected] Practical information Location: Bridgetown, Totnes, Devon Facilitators; The circle will be held by two youth advocates - Willow, Tabi with Heidi Please wear comfortable clothing and bring anything that will make you comfortable sitting on cushions on the floor. What people say about these circles; "The circle was beautifully held by Heidi, Willow and Tabi, people who came seemed to really relate to each other and everyone communicated that the topic was really needed in the community. There was lots of deep emotion, connection and warmth for each other and it was such a wonderful space to deeply listen to neurodivergent experiences as well as the experiences of those supporting neurodiverse individuals." "The space was held without pressure or judgement - I came away with a warm feeling of acceptance after being included in this safe and respectful circle. Coming to the listening circle on Neurodiversity, held by Willow and T, has given me a greater sense of awareness and love for my peers who think, process and express themselves differently. " "The neurodiversity circle I attended was held with such integrity and warmth. An inclusive and safe environment was created so that we could explore and hear different perspectives from the heart of people's experience. For me the circle was deeply healing and enlightening. These circles, on many different subjects, are part of the answer to weaving our fractured communities back together. Highly highly recommended." "The neurodiversity was inclusive, illuminating, supportive and heartening. Beautifully held with tenderness and authenticity and lovely to be a part of. Thank you." Circlewise is a service that provides facilitated listening circles, the way of council training and rites of passage ceremonies to community members, organisation's and those working in education. They are committed to supporting individuals, groups and the community by building life skills in communication and empathy through circle practices. Circlewise offers facilitated circles and ceremonies, support, training and resources to promote: - Excellence in compassionate communication - Social, spiritual, emotional, mental well-being - Empowered and relational learning - Nature inspired ways of relating https://www.circlewise.co