A FOREST of Dean woman is inviting neurodivergent women to join a new six-month support programme after describing her own late diagnosis of autism and ADHD as life-changing.

Jewels Wingfield, who runs EarthHeart, has launched Cauldron of Illuminations, an in-person course beginning in October for women who are autistic, have ADHD or identify as AuDHD.

Ms Wingfield said discovering she was neurodivergent around eight years ago transformed the way she understood herself after a friend suggested she complete an online ADHD screening quiz.

She said the experience left her in tears as she finally felt "seen and understood" in a way previous therapy had not achieved.

Since then, she has spent years learning more about neurodiversity and sharing her experiences online, particularly as a woman diagnosed later in life.

She said: "I feel like I have finally come home to myself and am living the most authentic version of myself I have managed to date."

The six-month programme will run from the autumn equinox through to spring and is designed to provide a supportive space where neurodivergent women can share experiences, reflect on their lives and build confidence.

The course combines nature-based activities with spiritual discussion, encouraging participants to explore their neurodiversity through what Ms Wingfield describes as an "ancient sacred approach".

She believes many of the challenges neurodivergent people face stem from modern society rather than from being neurodivergent itself.

Ms Wingfield said she wanted other women to experience the same sense of belonging and self-acceptance she found after her diagnosis.

She said: "One of the most powerful aspects of this journey has been to connect deeply with other women like me and be able to talk about it, share deeply and learn more through shared experience."

The programme will take place at EarthHeart and is open to women seeking a supportive environment to better understand and embrace their neurodivergence.