About Us

MyOTAS (My Own Time and Space) is a parent-led charity based in Wickford, Essex, dedicated to improving outcomes for neurodivergent children and young people, and their families. Founded in 2019, we create safe, accessible and inclusive informed spaces where individuals feel accepted, understood, and empowered.  A defining characteristic of MyOTAS is that our entire team is comprised of parents of neurodivergent children.

This unique structure means that every team member possesses direct, personal experience with the challenges
and triumphs faced by neurodivergent families. This lived experience translates into an inherently empathetic and
deeply understanding approach to service delivery. We are passionate about sharing our knowledge and supporting
other families on their journey.

We know that many neurodivergent families face barriers to education, social connection, and emotional wellbeing.
Our work is rooted in lived experience and shaped by the voices of those we support. Through a compassionate,
community-led approach, we offer practical help, emotional support, and opportunities for growth and connection.

"They put me in touch with groups to help with my daughter. I would have gone under without them. I felt totally alone and everyone else had turned their back on me. A lifeline."

Our Vision

To improve the lives of neurodivergent children and young people and their families through our three pillars of support:

  • Inclusive Activities: Creative, movement-based, and nature-focused sessions designed to support emotional regulation, confidence, and social connection.
  • Family Support: Peer-led groups, training, 1:1 support, and resources validate the parent/carer experience and empower them to advocate for their children.
  • Community Awareness and Acceptance: Outreach, training, and collaboration to promote understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity across Essex and beyond.

"Thank you so much for all your support and all the information in your email as well as when you listened to me on the phone this morning. I am so grateful. I actually felt like I could breathe when we ended our call."

Our Values
  • Kindness – We lead with compassion.
  • Inclusivity – Everyone is welcome.
  • Non-judgmental Support – We value people for who they are.
  • Innovation – We explore new ideas and approaches.
  • Collaboration – We work openly with families, professionals, and partner organisations.

"Thank you so much for your time, as well as knowledge on Friday. You made me feel a little more sane after a very bad few weeks."

What We Do
  • We run weekly activities for young people, including Mindful Crafts, Mother and Daughter Yoga, Woodland Warriors, and co-regulation workshops, all designed to support emotional wellbeing and social connection.
  • We support families through weekly group sessions, one-to-one referrals, and specialist workshops, offering guidance, peer support, and practical tools.
  • We provide outreach and advocacy across education, health, and social care to ensure neurodivergent voices are heard and needs are met.
  • We distribute our co-authored book, Supporting Your Neurodivergent Child, which offers accessible, lived-experience-based guidance for families.
  • We deliver consultancy and training to influence policy, raise awareness, and improve services for neurodivergent communities at both local and national levels.

"The information I've got from this group has wholeheartedly helped me and my family. I felt so alone before, now I have people in my life that understand!"

Driven by Community

Our trustees, staff, and volunteers reflect the lived experience of the families we serve. We regularly gather feedback through surveys, social media, and drop-ins to ensure our services evolve with the needs of our community.

"My sons came to their first Woodland Warriors session this weekend and I honestly felt a bit emotional watching them. They were so happy, growing in confidence, trying new things. They're already buzzing about coming again."

Our Impact
  • Over 3,000 families supported through online and in-person services.
  • 94% of parents who answered our survey reported reduced isolation and increased confidence after receiving our help.
  • 86% of young people feel less anxious after attending sessions.
  • Families re-engage with education, build friendships, and feel empowered.

"Parents with lived experience and staffed by people who have SO much local knowledge to guide you."

"No judgement. Fantastic knowledge spread amongst the parent volunteers. Great signposting to varied services and further support groups."

"My daughter is autistic and finds group settings too difficult to manage, but with Gweniems being a much smaller group of children, and sessions being very calm and supportive, she has thrived and made brilliant progress."

"They made me feel very welcome and I realised that I was not alone in what I was going through with my son."