About Us
Our Story
Our story began at a South London library, where two parents (Saynab and Archie - strangers to each other at the time) were both working overtime to help their children with school homework.
As far as they were both concerned, they were just two parents who visited the library to help their children with studies. Both of their children familiarise with each other, and they soon discovered that they were both parents of neurodivergent children.
What started as simple pleasantries turned into a supportive friendship leading them signposting each other to relevant information and activities supporting SEND children.
One conversation led them to realise that parents of neurodivergent children often navigate this parenting journey with little to no support and increasing number of such parents feel socially excluded with ensuing negative impact of this on parents in such circumstances and their children.
While acknowledging that neurodivergent children are to a varying degree entitled to support from various professionals, organizations and government agencies, there is that inherent question: "Who are there for their parents?"
The POND Network was born from this question.
We want to create a safe space for parents of neurodivergent children to connect, share their struggles without judgment, and empower each other with tips, hacks, and a sense of community.
We know it's hard, and we want other parents to know they are not alone.
Our Vision
"A world where every parent and carer of a neurodivergent child feels connected, informed, confident, and empowered, and where their children are understood, supported, and able to thrive."
This is the vision that drives The POND Network CIC. We are a UK-wide network built for and by Parents Of NeuroDivergent (POND) children.
Our Mission
Our mission is to benefit the community of parents and carers of neurodivergent children across the United Kingdom by establishing and maintaining a vibrant network for support, engagement, and advocacy. We are dedicated to creating a space where you can find connection, quality information, and a powerful collective voice.
Our Community
The POND Network is here for parents and carers of neurodivergent children and young people across the United Kingdom. Our community includes, but is not limited to, those parenting and caring for individuals with:
- Autism
- ADHD
- Dyslexia
- Dyspraxia
- Other forms of neurodivergence, whether formally diagnosed or not.
We are a non-judgmental, inclusive community where parents and carers can share experiences, offer practical advice, and find emotional support.
Our Online Community Platform: The Heart of the Network
To bring our vision to life, our website, thepondnetwork.org, serves as our central community hub. This platform is the primary tool we use to achieve our mission, aims, and objectives. It is a safe and dedicated digital space designed to break down the barriers of isolation and empower our members.
This virtual platform directly supports our goals by providing the infrastructure for a thriving, interactive network. It is where our aims of providing safe platforms, disseminating information, and building a strong, supportive community come together.
On our platform, you have the power to connect, share, and learn. Here are some of the ways you can engage with the community:
- Connect with Each Other: You can create a profile, find and connect with other members, participate in group discussions, and join forums dedicated to specific topics or regions. This helps to build a strong, supportive, and non-judgmental community, reducing isolation.
- Share and Learn from Experiences: Members can post updates, write articles about their journeys, and comment on discussions to share their lived experiences and practical advice. This collective wisdom is one of our community's greatest assets.
- Provide Virtual Support: Through messaging, group chats, and forum replies, you can offer and receive emotional and practical support from peers who truly understand the journey.
- Signpost to Resources: You can share links to useful articles, services, and tools. The platform enables us to collectively build and curate a comprehensive directory of trusted specialist services, charities, and support organisations, helping everyone to navigate the complex systems with more confidence.
Our Activities
Beyond our online platform, we work to empower our community through a range of activities:
- Peer Support Network: We establish and moderate safe, accessible online and in-person peer support groups and forums. We also organise inclusive, in-person social events and meetups for families to connect and form long-lasting bonds.
- Information & Resource Hub: We create, curate, and share reliable information and resources to empower you to navigate the educational, health, and social care systems effectively.
- Engagement & Training: We organise workshops, webinars, and events led by experts and community members to equip you with practical skills and knowledge.
- Advocacy & Representation: We act as a collective voice to represent the needs of our community to policymakers, schools, and healthcare providers to drive positive change.