A new community programme designed for neurodivergent adults has launched this month at Hamill House on Chorley New Road, Bolton.
SparkShift Community will offer structured, welcoming group sessions for adults in Bolton and the surrounding areas who are diagnosed with, or waiting for assessment for, ADHD and/or Autism. The initiative is led by Lumina Pathways CIC, with sessions delivered by Surya Empowerment Movement Ltd.
The programme has been created in response to growing local need. Many neurodivergent adults do not qualify for statutory care services but still experience isolation, burnout or a lack of understanding. SparkShift Community offers a calm, supportive space where people can connect with others who share similar experiences, without pressure to “mask” or fit into traditional settings.
The first eight-week programme will run between 18th February and June 2026, with sessions held on Wednesday evenings. Groups will be kept small, with a maximum of 15 participants, helping to create a relaxed and predictable environment. Each 75–90 minute session follows a clear structure so attendees know what to expect. The sessions will remain open to new participants joining at any time during the eight weeks.
Topics will include managing stress and overwhelm, understanding how the neurodivergent mind works, creative expression, improving physical wellbeing, practical cooking and nutrition, exploring self-employment and freelancing, and building confidence and communication skills. Sessions are delivered by experienced practitioners in wellbeing, nutrition, coaching and employment support.
Pauline V. Muswere-Enagbonma, Chief Executive Officer across the Jessamy ecosystem, including Lumina Pathways CIC, said: “SparkShift Community reflects our commitment to creating structured, affirming spaces where neurodivergent adults are not treated as an afterthought. Too many individuals fall between statutory services and informal peer support, leaving them isolated despite being capable and self-reliant. SparkShift is about recognising the spark within neurodivergent minds, their creativity, resilience and insight as well as creating the conditions for that spark to grow through community, consistency and dignity.”
Annemarie Hlavacova, Partner, at Surya Empowerment Movement Ltd, also commented:
“We’re incredibly proud to be delivering SparkShift Community alongside Lumina Pathways. The response has been overwhelming in the best possible way, spaces filled very quickly, and we’ve had so many people reach out to say how needed this kind of space is.
SparkShift gives people time and permission to slow down, to connect with others who understand, and to share wisdom and experience in a way that feels safe and supportive. It also allows us to support and showcase local, experienced neurodivergent practitioners and teachers, who will be delivering a wide range of really meaningful sessions for the community.
This isn’t just about running groups, it’s about building something sustainable, inclusive, and genuinely helpful for neurodivergent adults in Manchester.”
The programme is fully insured, professionally governed and delivered with safeguarding measures in place, including enhanced DBS-checked facilitators and secure data processes.
As awareness of neurodiversity continues to grow across Greater Manchester, SparkShift Community aims to provide a practical, locally based response, helping adults build confidence, friendships and everyday skills in a supportive Bolton setting.
Further information on the SparkShift Community can be found here: https://luminapathways.org.uk/sparkshift-community/