ThriveSpark Southampton

Who we are

ThriveSpark Southampton is a community-led charity dedicated to empowering, supporting, and celebrating individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) across Southampton and the surrounding area. Founded on the belief that neurodiversity is a source of strength, not limitation, ThriveSpark exists to ensure that every ADHD mind has the opportunity to thrive.

We work to create a city that truly understands ADHD - one that fosters acceptance, access, and opportunity for all. Through practical support, education, and advocacy, we seek to ignite the potential of individuals, families, and communities affected by ADHD.

Our culture and values

At ThriveSpark Southampton, our culture is rooted in empathy, inclusion, and empowerment. We are a community built by and for people who understand that every mind is unique - and that difference should be celebrated, not stigmatised.

We strive to create a supportive, open environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Whether through our workshops, advocacy, or peer groups, we approach every interaction with compassion, respect, and positivity.

Our work is guided by the following core values:

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

At ThriveSpark Southampton, we are committed to creating an inclusive, fair, and respectful environment for everyone involved in our organisation - including volunteers, trustees, service users, and community partners.

We believe that diversity is a strength that enriches our work and deepens our understanding of the communities we serve. We actively promote equality of opportunity and oppose all forms of discrimination, harassment, and victimisation.

Our culture is founded upon the principles of respect, fairness, and empowerment, and we are dedicated to ensuring that these principles are reflected in every aspect of our governance, service delivery, and community engagement.

Our Commitment

We are committed to:

• Equality of Opportunity: Ensuring that all individuals - regardless of age, disability, gender, gender identity, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation - are treated with dignity and respect.

• Fair Recruitment and Participation: Promoting fair access to volunteering, leadership, and service participation across all backgrounds.

• Accessibility: Striving to make our spaces, events, and materials accessible to all, including those with physical, sensory, or cognitive differences.

• Representation: Seeking to reflect the diversity of the Southampton community within our governance and operations.

• Training and Awareness: Providing regular training and guidance to trustees, volunteers, and partners to ensure that equality and inclusion underpin every decision and interaction.

• Zero Tolerance of Discrimination: Responding promptly and decisively to any behaviour or practice that undermines equality or inclusion.

Quality of Service and Practice

Our commitment to quality is inseparable from our commitment to fairness. We continuously evaluate the accessibility, cultural sensitivity, and inclusivity of our programmes to ensure that they meet the needs of all who engage with us.

Feedback is welcomed and encouraged from service users, partners, and volunteers to help us improve. We monitor our practices regularly and review this policy annually to ensure our approach remains aligned with best practice and current equality legislation, including the Equality Act 2010.

Responsibility and Accountability

• The Management Committee Board holds overall responsibility for ensuring compliance with this policy and for fostering a culture of equality throughout the organisation.

• The Chair and Vice Chair are responsible for ensuring that inclusive practices are embedded in all governance and operational procedures.

• Every volunteer and representative of ThriveSpark Southampton is expected to uphold this policy and to act with integrity, empathy, and respect in all interactions.

Our Principle

We believe inclusion is not a gesture - it is a foundation. At ThriveSpark Southampton, we strive to create a charity where everyone, regardless of background or identity, feels safe, valued, and empowered to contribute.

Empowering minds. Igniting potential.