Launching Our Research on Neurodiversity and Grief

January 14, 2026

Research plays an important role in shaping services that are compassionate, inclusive and responsive to real lived experience. Recently, our Psychological and Emotional Services team celebrated the launch of a new research publication that reflects this commitment and the power of working together with families.

The publication, Neurodiversity and Grief: Advancing a neuroinclusive Service, shares learning from the CABS service and highlights how neuroinclusive approaches can make a meaningful difference for children, young people and adults experiencing grief young people and adults experiencing grief and how we adapt our services to meet the needs of families.

Shaped by families, rooted in experience

The research was co-produced alongside families who use the CABS service, ensuring that their voices, experiences and insights were central throughout. Families involved in the research helped shape both the findings and the direction of the service, with two parents also contributing through their roles on the hospice ethics committee.

The publication explores the importance of creating spaces where every individual is respected, including their communication style, sensory needs and emotional experience. It also highlights the gaps that can exist in support for neurodivergent people and how inclusive practice can help reduce health care inequalities.

Marking the moment together

The launch was marked with a small evening event, bringing together families who had been part of the research. A tea party and group discussion created space for reflection, connection and shared learning. Many families spoke openly about the challenges they had faced in finding appropriate support, and how the CABS service helped them through some very difficult times.

Several parents shared that they did not know where they would be without the support of the hospice, reinforcing the importance of services that listen, adapt and respond to individual needs.

One parent reflected afterwards:

“It’s great to see what you have done to bring the wonderful work you do to a wider audience, which will hopefully inspire others to think about neurodiversity and grief in their own practice.
I’m happy to have been able to be a small part of this.”

From research to practice

The learning from this research has already been embedded into the CABS service, with neuroinclusive practices now forming a core part of how support is offered. The publication has also influenced approaches within counselling services and inpatient unit supporting neurodivergent adults, helping extend its impact beyond CABS.

The research represents a true team effort, involving everything from facilitating parent groups and delivering sessions for children and young people, to transcribing interviews and writing the publication itself.

Looking ahead

This research is an example of how collaboration, curiosity and compassion can lead to meaningful change. By sharing these findings more widely, Harlington Hospice hopes to encourage learning, reflection and improved practice across the sector.

We welcome feedback on the publication and look forward to continuing conversations about neurodiversity, grief and inclusive care.

If you wish to read the report, please contact our Psychological & Emotional Support Team.