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Neurodiversity Celebration Week

Neurodiversity refers to differences in the ways a person’s brain processes information. It’s an umbrella term used to describe variations in thinking patterns, including dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, autism and ADHD.

We are supporting Neurodiversity Celebration Week, a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. Taking place this year from 18-24th March, it is about recognising the many talents and advantages of being neurodivergent, while creating more inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate differences and empower every individual.

Initiated by Siena Castellon, the aim of the week is to change the narrative around neurodiverse minds.

“I founded Neurodiversity Celebration Week in 2018 because I wanted to change the way learning differences are perceived,” Siena comments. “As a teenager who is autistic and has ADHD, dyslexia, and dyspraxia, my experience has been that people often focus on the challenges of neurological diversity. I wanted to change the narrative and create a balanced view which focuses equally on our talents and strengths.”

Research shows that neurodivergent individuals can bring many valuable strengths to the workplace, including superior focus and problem-solving skills, as well as creativity and limiting groupthink. In fact, research by Deloitte found companies with neurodiverse teams are more likely to have higher productivity and profitability.

A big part of changing the narrative around neurodiversity is education. That’s why we’re encouraging all our staff to take part in webinars and events during Neurodiversity Celebration Week to improve our understanding around neurodiversity and share knowledge and ideas.

Together, let’s celebrate different ways of thinking. We can all help to create more inclusive environments where all individuals can thrive. If you’d like to get involved there is a wealth of resources available at neurodiversityweek.com

Five Neurodiversity facts

  1. Neurodiversity is the concept that neurological differences, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others, are natural variations of the human brain rather than deficits or disorders that need to be cured or normalised. This perspective emphasises accepting and celebrating diverse ways of thinking and processing information.
  2. Approximately 15-20% of the UK population is neurodivergent. This means that on an average day, 42,733 neurodivergent individuals travel through Heathrow Airport and 47,184 travel through London Liverpool Street.
  3. The neurodiversity movement originated in the late 1990s, primarily within the autism community, with advocates like Judy Singer and Jim Sinclair. They promoted the idea that neurological differences should be respected and accommodated rather than pathologists.
  4. Neurodivergent advocates champions for inclusive environments that accommodate the needs of neurodivergent individuals, such as providing alternative communication methods, flexible work arrangements, and sensory-friendly spaces. This approach benefits not only neurodivergent individuals but society by fostering innovation and diversity of thought.
  5. While neurodiversity has gained recognition and support in recent years, there is still a need for greater understanding, acceptance, and accommodation of neurodivergent individuals in various aspects of society. Advocates continue to work towards creating more inclusive environments and championing the streength of a diverse workforce can bring to a workforce.