Our Projects

WaitingWell

Funded by a £20,000 grant from the National Lottery Community Fund, WaitingWell is the UK’s first holistic initiative designed specifically for individuals who are on a waiting list for an assessment, providing free evidence-based practical and emotional guidance during this challenging period.

With average NHS assessment waiting times for autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent conditions now extending for 2+ years in most areas across the country, many individuals experience frustration, distress, isolation, and a lack of support while awaiting a formal diagnosis. Waiting Well aims to bridge this critical gap for families and individuals who may identify as neurodivergent.

WaitingWell will equip families and individuals with practical tools, actionable advice and evidence-based strategies that can be implemented immediately without any additional financial burden.

Run by The Owl Centre Charity, WaitingWell provides a range of online resources, which address the common challenges faced by individuals with neurodiverse needs during the waiting period, as well as their families and loved ones.

The initiative has been developed in collaboration with neurodivergent individuals who are currently on an assessment waiting list, specialists from Northumbria University who are researching the impact of mental health of those on a waiting list, as well as healthcare professionals and advocacy groups.

The free resources include:

• Practical, evidence-based strategies from occupational therapists, specialist advisory teachers, to psychotherapists delivered through accessible videos to help individuals navigate daily challenges in education, work, and relationships.
• Wellbeing and mental health support to manage anxiety, overwhelm, and uncertainty during the waiting period and ahead of the assessment – with tips including how neurodivergent minds can sleep well, and how to support children specifically who are on an autism assessment waiting list.
• ⁠The Owl Centre’s Hoots Who podcast which explores heartfelt stories, insightful anecdotes, and practical tips from the neurodiversity team – offering tools to families and caregivers on how to better understand and advocate for their loved ones.

The concept for the initiative was originally born from the frustrations and distress expressed by over 7,000 individuals across a number of NHS Trusts, who are currently on a waiting list.

Saigon Children’s Charity, Vietnam

The Owl Centre Charity is incredibly proud of our long-standing partnership with Saigonchildren and the impact we have made together in supporting children with disabilities in Vietnam. Since 2016, our collaboration has focused on enhancing professional knowledge and training for teachers and caregivers, ensuring that children with autism receive high-quality early intervention.

Through the Special Needs Education Programme (SNEP), we have worked closely with saigonchildren to provide expert consultation, in-depth training, and parental support.

Our dedicated consultants, Ms. Marianne Simpson and Ms. Nicola Lathey, have played a vital role in shaping multipule programmes including two, three-year Advanced Training Course on Early Intervention for Children with Autism (2017–2019), equipping core teachers with essential skills and knowledge.

At The Owl Centre Charity, we believe that sustainable change comes from empowering professionals with the right expertise. That’s why Saigonchildren are delighted to recognise trainees who meet our high standards with Owl’s Champion certificates, acknowledging their commitment to best practices in autism support in Vietnam.

Our partnership with Saigonchildren continues to thrive, and we look forward to many more years of working together to improve the lives of children with autism in Vietnam.