Table 2.

NAIT principles.

Principle	Description
Diagnosis Matters	No support should be diagnosis dependent, but feedback from neurodivergent people indicates it is important. Delayed, missed or misdiagnosis impacts quality of life, mental health and support. Diagnosis provides self-understanding, identity, peers, access to information and can enhance an awareness of supports.
Environment First	The fundamental basis of all effective support is having the right expectations and adjustments in the physical and social environment in everyday settings.
Language & Mindsets Matter	Negative experiences can be reduced through changes in language and mindset. A key message is ‘we were expecting you.’ We should expect to meet neurodivergent people in everyday life. Professionals should expect to meet neurodivergent people and should anticipate their needs.
Neurodevelopmental Lens	Neurodevelopmental differences frequently co-occur. Employing a neurodevelopmental lens means taking account of sensory and communication preferences and individual thinking styles. We can approach everyone with an inclusive mindset and the right approach. We invest in developing neurodevelopmental services strategically aligned across the lifespan. National neurodevelopmental pathways are required to frame and shift practice.
Nothing about us without us (co-production & partnership)	Neurodivergent people are included throughout. There is a need for co-production and involvement at all stages. For children and people with limited communication, families are also advocates and partners.