TALKWORKS shortlisted for national award recognising work with neurodivergent patients
We’re proud to share that TALKWORKS has been shortlisted for a Transform and Innovate Award at the Psychological Professions Network South West (PPN SW) Annual Excellence Awards 2026. The nomination recognises the work our NHS service is doing to make therapy more accessible and supportive for neurodivergent patients, including people with autism and ADHD.
More people are now coming to TALKWORKS with difficulties including low mood, anxiety and stress, alongside autism and/or ADHD. In response, our clinicians set up a neurodivergent working group to look at how our therapy can be adapted to better meet people’s needs. The group focuses on understanding what works best for our neurodivergent patients and how small changes can make a big difference to people’s experience of therapy.
The team has also introduced a range of practical changes to make TALKWORKS easier to access. These include:
- Filming short videos of our bases so that people to help reduce anxiety before the first appointment
- Adjusting lighting in our clinic rooms
- Offering shorter sessions to help with information processing, or longer sessions where needed
These changes aim to reduce anxiety and help people feel more comfortable and supported when accessing our service. Caz, Clinical Team Lead in the South Hams and West Devon team who oversees the neurodivergent working group, said:
“We know that more people are coming to TALKWORKS with autism and/or ADHD alongside common mental health difficulties, and it’s vital that our service responds in a way that truly meets their needs. Bringing clinicians together to share learning and adapt how we work has been a really positive step. This work is all about making TALKWORKS more accessible, flexible and helpful for neurodivergent patients.”
Our work will be showcased at the virtual PPN SW Awards event on Wednesday 6 May. The event celebrates innovation and excellence across NHS psychological professions, and the winners will be announced during the live ceremony.