Understand yourself, build on your strengths and ask for support – the advice of Daisy Chain’ s Jenny Hewitt.
FINDING YOUR
STRENGTHS
THRIVING AS A NEURODIVERGENT YOUNG PERSON IN TEESSIDE
Advice – Jenny Hewitt.
Jenny Hewitt is the director of services at Teesside-based charity Daisy Chain, focused on supporting autistic and neurodivergent children and adults.
Here, Jenny shares her advice for young people who are either autistic or neurodivergent and trying to decide on the right career for them.
B eing autistic or neurodivergent isn’ t something to“ fix”. It’ s part of who you are and can be one of your greatest strengths.
Everyone’ s brain works differently – and it is that diversity that makes our communities, schools and workplaces stronger.
Whether you’ re at school, thinking about college or imagining your first job, understanding your strengths can open doors.
In Teesside, there are plenty of opportunities to learn, grow and shine.
UNDERSTANDING YOURSELF
The first step is getting to know yourself. What are you good at? What do you enjoy? What helps you feel confident?
Maybe you love solving problems, remembering facts or thinking creatively? Maybe gaming, design, technology, animals or helping others excites you? These interests can point you toward careers or study paths that suit you.
You might also notice things that make life harder – such as busy social situations, changes in routine or sensory overload. That’ s normal. Knowing what you need isn’ t a weakness. It helps you find strategies that work for you.
BUILDING ON YOUR STRENGTHS
Once you know your strengths, look for ways to grow them. Teesside has lots of options: schools and colleges with supported learning, apprenticeships, volunteering and local programmes where you can gain experience at your own pace.
Don’ t be afraid to ask for adjustments. That could mean extra time on tasks, clear instructions or a quiet space.
Teachers, employers and training providers want you to succeed.
Explaining what helps you makes it easier for them to support you.
FINDING SUPPORT
The right support makes a huge difference. Family, friends, teachers and local organisations can help you navigate school, work and life.
In Teesside, Daisy Chain is a charity that’ s leading the way. Based in Norton, we offer youth groups, wellbeing sessions, employability programmes and family support. We help young people build confidence, social skills and practical experience for adult life.
If you’ re unsure where to start, Daisy Chain can guide you. We connect you with people who understand your experiences and help you plan your next steps.
PREPARING FOR WORK
Being career-ready isn’ t about following one path. Some people
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