Neurodivergent support group launched in Ballybofey and Stranorlar

A new volunteer-led group, Seo Mise / This Is Me, has launched in the Twin Towns to support neurodivergent people and their families. The Ballybofey & Stranorlar Integrated Community Company (BASICC) has been key in the establishment of the Group.

The ‘Seo Mise’ Facebook community went live this week, and it is hoped that the page will be a safe and supportive online space for families locally. 

Angela Ward, PRO, stated: ‘’Every child deserves to feel they belong. Seo Mise/This Is Me aims to turn that into action for neurodivergent children in the Twin Towns. 

“Built by parents and local families, this is about real inclusion, real support, and making sure no child is left on the edges of their own community.”

The group has already seen strong engagement, with 149 responses to a local community survey highlighting a clear need for more inclusive supports and activities in the area.

Founded by local parents, advocates, and community members, Seo Mise/This Is Me is working to create a more inclusive, accessible, and supportive environment where neurodivergent individuals feel safe, valued, and understood.

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This is a grassroots, community-driven initiative built by volunteers who understand the barriers first-hand and are coming together to create real, practical change locally. 

The group is open to everyone and is calling on the wider community to get involved, learn more, and help build a more inclusive Twin Towns.

Planned initiatives include the development of a sensory room, safe enclosed play areas, neurodivergent friendly classes such as music, swimming, yoga and martial arts, and social groups for teenagers and young adults. 

The group also aims to support families and caregivers, promote autism awareness and understanding through local businesses and services, and advocate for improved accessibility and inclusion across the community.

The group had a soft launch at Christmas with a fundraising ‘Elf Run' and is continuing its first phase of activity with inclusive Easter programmes now open. ‘Seo Mise’, is offering two further calm, supportive, and welcoming experiences for children of all abilities. 

Seo Mise/This Is Me is community-led, with plans to establish a steering committee that includes neurodivergent individuals, families, educators, and professionals to help guide its work. 

The group is currently seeking funding to expand its initiatives, with applications submitted to Donegal Sports and Recreation Partnership, the Rural Action Fund, and Creative Ireland Nurture Youth Fund.

This initiative is about building something lasting for the community, by the community, and making sure no one feels left out or unsupported.

The group is encouraging anyone interested, including individuals, families, carers, and supporters, to get involved and be part of this growing movement for inclusion in the Twin Towns.

More information, including Easter activities supported by BASICC is available here: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1DVYTevmmk/