Liverpool has outlined a bold plan to support neurodiverse people, working in partnership across Merseyside, after research revealed significant barriers in areas including education, employment, and health.
Liverpool’s Commitment to Neurodiversity: A Strategy for an Inclusive City 2025–2035, is a collaborative effort shaped by the voices of neurodivergent people, their families, and carers.
The strategy highlights the urgent need for action to improve the lives of residents who are neurodiverse, including those with Autism, ADHD, Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, and Tourette’s Syndrome.
It is estimated that more than 70,000 people in Liverpool are neurodivergent, with one in seven across the UK. The true figure is likely to be higher due to barriers to diagnosis.
The development of the strategy has been led by the Liverpool Neurodiversity Strategic Partnership (LNSP), which brings together services across Liverpool City Council including Adult Social Care and Children’s Services, the NHS, education, the voluntary and social enterprise sector, and most importantly, neurodivergent people, their families, and carers.
Built on the principle that neurodivergent people should be empowered to live well and pursue a fulfilling life, the strategy reflects growing awareness and understanding of neurodiversity, alongside recognition that systems and services are not in line with community needs.
The Liverpool Neurodiversity Strategy calls for urgent transformation, including:
- Challenging perceptions and dismantling stigma.
- Embedding awareness of neurodiversity and strengthening understanding across services.
- Expanding early intervention provision to provide timely, needs‑led support.
- Improving support options for neurodivergent individuals who self‑identify or are impacted by delays in diagnostic services.
- Redesigning and streamlining assessment pathways to improve accessibility and timely access.
Councillor Angela Coleman, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “This strategy has been shaped by the voices of neurodivergent people and their families, and it sets out a clear vision for change.
“This is an important step forward, aligned with wider work across Cheshire and Merseyside, and we are grateful to everyone who has contributed.”
Anne Marie Lubanski, Liverpool City Council Deputy Chief Executive and Corporate Director of Adult Care and Health, said: “Our priority is ensuring that people who are neurodivergent can access the care and support they need, when they need it.
“Through strong collaboration across communities, services, and sectors, we will deepen understanding, remove barriers, and create a society that truly values and embraces neurodiversity.”
Anthony Leo, NHS Cheshire and Merseyside’s Place Director for Liverpool, said: “We want Cheshire and Merseyside to be a place where neurodivergent people, their families and carers can thrive, and we’re committed to working with partners to make that happen.
“We’re working with all nine Local Authorities – including Liverpool – to improve how people access the care they need and this strategy is an important step in that journey.”
Liverpool’s Commitment to Neurodiversity: A Strategy for an Inclusive City 2025–2035