The Ministry of Equality has announced that the Supported Needs and Disability Office is launching a new parent guide focused on attachment and neurodiversity. This guide has been created to aid families with neurodivergent children in fostering stronger connections with one another. 

A statement continued: “The guide offers strategies and insights aimed at enhancing the emotional bonds within the family unit and addresses the unique challenges faced by these families, validating their emotions which is crucial for empowering families to navigate their experiences together with confidence and understanding. 

“The author, Alice Macleod, is a trauma and attachment practitioner with over 20 years of experience in education, social care and family support. This resource has been crafted with the input of parents, carers and professionals across Gibraltar making the content accurate and deeply relevant to the needs of families dealing with neurodiversity in Gibraltar. Its comprehensive approach aims to reassure families that they are not alone in their struggles and that there is a pathway to building stronger connections with their children. 

“The guide is free and available online at www.disability.gov.gi/documents. 

“The guide is designed to be user-friendly and accessible. The Supported Needs and Disability Office remain committed to supporting families and enhancing their experiences as they navigate the complexities of neurodiversity.” 

Supported Needs and Disability Office Manager Jenny Victory said: "This guide further shows our commitment to supporting families with children who are neurodivergent. It provides essential strategies for building connections while also validating the feelings and challenges that families experience. We will continue to create a supportive environment that empowers families to thrive." 

Author Alice Macleod stated: “It has been a true privilege to work with families and professionals in Gibraltar who shared their experiences and insight so openly. Gibraltar’s commitment to focusing on attachment and neurodiversity reflects a genuine dedication to supporting families and strengthening the next generation’s emotional wellbeing.” 

Minister for Equality, Employment, Culture and Tourism, Christian Santos, said: "The number of persons with diagnosed neurodiversity is on the rise and as such, HM Government of Gibraltar is committed to developing resources such as this Parent Guide as one way to support families. The SNDO will continue to work diligently to deliver more support to these families."