Our Mission
To promote empowerment, through support, advocacy, signposting and information to neurodiverse individuals to enable them to reach their full potential.
Our Vision
We plan to bring an information support hub under one umbrella to help and support families and individuals navigate the assessment process, diagnosis, educational, employment and support services available for those who have neurodivergent needs.
Our Story
Causeway Neurodiversity was founded in 2022 to address the marked absence of support and information services for neurodiverse individuals in the Causeway Coast area. This has a serious impact on the well-being of individuals and their families. Professionals working with neurodiverse children, adults and their families also find the current lack of support frustrating and detrimental to the potential of those affected.
The formation of this new charity has been steered by Sara Jane O’Donnell, a multidisciplinary team social worker and a mother of a neurodiverse daughter, Yvonne King a founding members of Parents Unite and Kaye Cormack, founder/Project Manager of Phoenix ADHD Project.
We plan to bring an information support hub under one umbrella to help guide families and individuals through the minefield of the assessment process, diagnosis, educational and support services available for those with Autism, ADHD, and associated conditions. At present we are at the planning stage, reaching out to neurodiverse individuals, their families, professionals, and community representatives who have an interest in developing support services in the area. Over te summer months in 2022 we ran five events throughout the Causeway area enabling us to connect with families. Since January 2023 we have been two running monthly drop-in sessions, one the evening and one in the morning in Coleraine and one in Ballymoney.
MEET THE TEAM
Sara Jane O’Donnell
Chairperson
Sara Jane has been a qualified social worker since July 2007 and has worked with children throughout her career. Causeway Neurodiversity was developed as part of her role as a multidisciplinary social worker within primary care. She currently works as a SEN Project Manager within the Trust. In addition to her professional experience, Sara Jane is also a parent to a neurodivergent child with a statement of educational needs. She is deeply passionate about early intervention and sees it as key to providing effective support, advice, and information to families.
Yvonne King
chairperson
Yvonne is a proud mum to two amazing young people who have taught her more about life, the universe, and everything than she could ever hope to teach them. For the past 15 years, she has been immersed in the world of neurodivergence, gaining experience across parenting, inclusion, and education.
She is delighted to be part of such an amazing community.
Darren Stevenson
Treasurer
Darren Stevenson has worked in accountancy for over 20 years. He was keen to become involved with Causeway Neurodiversity as a parent of two young neurodivergent children. His motivation was to connect with other parents and children on a similar journey to his family’s.
Catherine GaulT
Director
With 24 years of experience in health, social care, and training, she has dedicated her career to fostering inclusivity and support for individuals in need. Having loved ones who are neurodiverse has deepened her understanding of the unique challenges and strengths that come with neurodiversity. Her passion lies in providing assistance wherever possible, working alongside Causeway Neurodiversity and engaging with the local community to create meaningful, supportive environments. Whether through education, advocacy, or direct support, she is committed to making a positive impact and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Laura McClure
Director
Laura is a qualified teacher who has supported children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) for over 20 years. She is passionate about providing effective and timely support for those with Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) and other co-occurring needs.
Laura holds a PGDip in SEND and is actively involved in several professional organisations. She is a member of the nasen NI SEN Advisory Group, a NAPLIC Committee member, an RADLD Ambassador, and was recently elected to the NASUWT Special Education Advisory Committee.
Susan O’Neill
director
Susan has been an Occupational Therapist for 10 years, with a focus on learning disabilities and special education. She holds a diploma in Sensory Integration and has completed specialised training in Sensory Attachment Intervention. Passionate about trauma-informed therapy and reflex integration, she is always exploring creative ways to support neurodiverse individuals and their families.
As a dyslexic practitioner, Susan brings empathy and a personal understanding to her work. In 2022, she founded Causeway OT, where she found her passion for making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and young people.
She is honoured to serve as a board member at Causeway Neurodiversity and to be part of such a dedicated team.
Nicola Rowles
director
Nicola is a passionate advocate for individuals with ASD and ADHD, bringing a wealth of experience in work coaching and employability development. With a strong background in senior public sector roles, she has led strategic investment initiatives aimed at driving meaningful change. Nicola is also deeply committed to fostering inclusion, having developed social groups designed to reduce isolation within the neurodivergent community. Her dedication to equality and diversity in the workplace underpins everything she does, making her a powerful force for positive and inclusive transformation.
Chris McNicholL
director
Chris is the Adult Services Coordinator at Causeway Neurodiversity and a passionate advocate for the neurodivergent community. Late diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and dyslexia, Chris experienced many challenges growing up without the insight or support a diagnosis can offer. This personal journey drives his commitment to supporting other neurodivergent adults.
Chris organises regular meet-ups for neurodivergent adults, with the help of a team of dedicated volunteers, and also manages the Facebook group for the adult support network. Through his work, he aims to help others build confidence, connect with one another, and feel a genuine sense of belonging.