Neurodiversity Celebration Week is taking place between 18^th – 24^th March 2024. The week is a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. It aims to transform how neurodivergent individuals are perceived and supported by providing the opportunity to recognise the many talents and advantages of being neurodivergent.

What is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity is an umbrella term used to describe alternative thinking styles. Some of the conditions that are most common among those who describe themselves as neurodivergent include Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia, Autism, Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), sensory processing disorders and ADHD. But regardless of labels, neurodiversity is about recognising those who think differently and as with all people, we each have our talents and challenges.

It is estimated that 1 in 8 of us has neurodiverse characteristics. However, most employees do not have the knowledge needed to identify and support their neurodivergent peers. Many ‘challenges’ neurodivergent people face are more to do with the environment and systems they are placed in, often designed by a majority population.

How are TACT supporting our Neurologically diverse colleagues?

TACT host a Neurodivergent Group for staff to drop into; this has been set up by staff to share tips and resources, provide support to individuals, to highlight areas in TACT where improvements can be made, and to raise awareness of neurodiverse issues across the organisation. The group hold regular drop-in sessions and all staff are welcome to join these. TACT staff can contact HR for further information about joining these sessions.

TACT employees also benefit from a CALM premium subscription. The neurodivergent population often experience stress more than the general population so CALM have developed a new Support Series to address challenges faced by the ADHD and neurodivergent population. The topics include focus, acute stress, emotional regulation and self compassion. This resource is a brilliant source of support and many staff have already benefitted from numerous areas of the app. Once again, if any staff need any assistance accessing CALM, please contact HR.

What’s happening during Neurodiversity Celebration Week?

During the week, there will be a range of events and sessions hosted by over 80 speakers, sharing their lived experiences and expertise around a variety of neurodiversity topics. All of these panel discussions are completely free to attend and open to all so there will be something useful for everyone on the schedule. For any staff, foster carers or anyone involved in fostering, there is sure to be something beneficial; whether it’s to support someone you know or just widening your understanding of neurodiverse conditions.

To access the events, you will need to register here to discover the schedule of the events taking place throughout the week.

Some of the themes being covered in this year’s events include:

• Neuro-inclusive Language & Communication
• The Experiences of Neurodivergent Women & Girls
• Neurodiversity for Parents & Carers
• Neurodiversity & Late Diagnosis
• Neurodiversity in the Workplace
• Neurodiversity in Schools & Education

…and lots more!

It can only be a beautiful and positive thing to recognise the many strengths and talents that come from thinking and perceiving the world differently. By celebrating the strengths of neurodivergent individuals, we can begin the seismic shift of changing the way neurodivergent individuals are perceived and supported, empowering them to achieve their potential.