By KLTV Newsdesk – 

Parents and young people share experiences as Kim Leadbeater visits Northorpe Hall Child + Family Trust

MP Kim Leadbeater has heard first-hand from Mirfield families about the challenges of securing support for neurodivergent children during a visit to Northorpe Hall Child + Family Trust in West Yorkshire.

The MP attended a special morning event designed to support local families, giving young people the opportunity to socialise in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

At the same time, parents were able to connect with one another, share their experiences and speak directly with professionals about the obstacles they face and the guidance they need.

Education challenges under the spotlight

Families were quick to open up to the MP, speaking candidly about difficulties with the education system.

Parents described the complexities of navigating the Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) process and the challenge of understanding how best to advocate for their children within schools.

Kim Leadbeater MP said: “It was a real privilege to meet families taking part in Northorpe Hall’s Me + My Normal programme.

“I had some powerful conversations with parents and young people about the challenges neurodivergent children can face within education and society, and the importance of creating safe spaces where young people can embrace and celebrate their unique identities.

The feedback from families spoke volumes about the impact of this innovative project, and we are incredibly lucky to have Northorpe Hall Child + Family Trust supporting children and young people across Spen Valley.”

Calls for more accessible support

During the session, families also highlighted the types of support they would like to see expanded locally.

Suggestions included regular family meet-ups, clearer advice on accessing services, and practical workshops to help parents and young people build confidence in self-advocacy.

Many of those attending had previously taken part in the Me + My Normal programme, a pioneering pilot project co-designed with parents and young people.

The initiative supports neurodivergent children aged 11 to 17, helping them celebrate their individuality, build peer connections, grow in confidence and explore what “normal” means to them in a safe and supportive space.

‘Heartwarming’ impact on young people

Julie Curtis from Northorpe Hall, who supported the delivery of the programme, said the positive impact on young people was clear to see.

“It was heartwarming to see how happy the young people felt, they were comfortable enough to socialise with one another and with our team, which made for a very welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere!”

Looking ahead

Northorpe Hall Child + Family Trust is keen to run the Me + My Normal programme again and is currently exploring funding and partnership opportunities to make this possible.

Organisations interested in supporting the initiative are encouraged to contact the team at support@northorpe.com.