When Chloe Jackson doesn’t have a front row seat to cutting edge surgery, she can be found creating something which has helped others to feel less alone. Traditional Scottish weaves and the NHS might not seem to have an awful lot in common, but Chloe has somehow made the juggle work and even enjoyed the journey along the way. And thrive she has, after she was inspired to launch Scotland’s first neurodiversity tartan. Chloe found time in her intense schedule to chat with Trend on all things tartan, and why it’s so important to enable people with similar diagnoses to feel seen and heard.
“I have ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyscalculia and dyspraxia—but this has never stopped me progressing in life,” said Chloe. “It has shaped my creativity, resilience and passion for what I do. The idea for neurodiversity tartan came after I wore a special tartan to my nursing graduation, where each colour had meaning behind it. It made me think—why isn’t there something like this for neurodiversity”? Chloe set to work and focused on the story she wanted the tartan to tell. Lochcarron of Selkirk enabled her creation to become reality, with the final product following traditional tartan structure. From trendy scarves to beautiful lambswool blankets, Chloe has also branched out into stylish woven shawls and has even done a range for pets.
“It still feels a bit surreal to have founded the first and only Pride of Neurodiversity Tartan in the world,” said Chloe. “The response has been incredibly positive. People have deeply connected with the tartan, particularly those currently on long waiting lists for ADHD and autism assessments, as well as those who have recently received a neurodiversity diagnosis. Knowing it has helped individuals feel seen and understood is something I value immensely.” To find out more, go to neurodiversitytartan.co.uk