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INTRODUCTION TO NEURODIVERSITY 11 February 2025, 10am - 1pm, online, £20 Register here https://ow.ly/ouIM50TFFNg It’s estimated that at least 20% of the UK’s adult population’s brains work in ways which are not seen as ‘neurotypical’ *, so you’re likely to meet ND people among your colleagues, service users, family and friends. Some of them may be diagnosed with neurological conditions such as autism spectrum condition (ASC), dyslexia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Neurodiversity refers to the concept that brain differences are natural variations – not deficits, disorders or impairments. *Source: Neurodivergent, neurodiversity and neurotypical: a guide to the terms - The Brain Charity The objectives of this session are that by the end of it you will: - Understand Neurodivergence - what it actually is and why it’s important to be aware of it - Develop an overview of different ways of processing and how that impacts ND people accessing the world (and therefore your work or business) - Recognise common triggers, stressors and things to look out for when you are working with ND people (and if you work with the general public, you will be) - Expand your awareness of the multiple possibilities of Neurodivergent experience and joy - how to harness that in your work/workplace About Holly Sutcliffe Holly is a Co-Director of Neurodivergent Friends CIC and is responsible for fundraising and care (HR) and shares strategic responsibilities with the other Co-Directors. As an educator with experience of all ages and in many different roles, a late-diagnosed autistic and the main parent/carer for her disabled daughter, Holly draws on a wide range of personal and professional experience to campaign for and promote neurodivergent acceptance and joy. Holly believes it is possible for neurodivergent humans to live happy, actualised and accepted lives but that there is much work to be done societally, culturally and institutionally before this is possible (including the intersectionality with race, gender, trans, queer, disability and other issues, rights and prejudices). Holly also lives with PTSD - like many neurodivergent folk - and is trauma-informed through her yoga and somatic work. She speaks with honesty, clarity and from the heart in order to shed light on her own experience, of living life on her own terms and the benefits - and challenges - that brings. Register here https://ow.ly/ouIM50TFFNg

INTRODUCTION TO NEURODIVERSITY 11 February 2025, 10am - 1pm, online, £20 Register here https://ow.ly/ouIM50TFFNg It’s estimated that at least 20% of the UK’s adult population’s brains work in ways which are not seen as ‘neurotypical’ *, so you’re likely to meet ND people among your colleagues, service users, family and friends. Some of them may be diagnosed with neurological conditions such as autism spectrum condition (ASC), dyslexia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Neurodiversity refers to the concept that brain differences are natural variations – not deficits, disorders or impairments. *Source: Neurodivergent, neurodiversity and neurotypical: a guide to the terms - The Brain Charity The objectives of this session are that by the end of it you will: - Understand Neurodivergence - what it actually is and why it’s important to be aware of it - Develop an overview of different ways of processing and how that impacts ND people accessing the world (and therefore your work or business) - Recognise common triggers, stressors and things to look out for when you are working with ND people (and if you work with the general public, you will be) - Expand your awareness of the multiple possibilities of Neurodivergent experience and joy - how to harness that in your work/workplace About Holly Sutcliffe Holly is a Co-Director of Neurodivergent Friends CIC and is responsible for fundraising and care (HR) and shares strategic responsibilities with the other Co-Directors. As an educator with experience of all ages and in many different roles, a late-diagnosed autistic and the main parent/carer for her disabled daughter, Holly draws on a wide range of personal and professional experience to campaign for and promote neurodivergent acceptance and joy. Holly believes it is possible for neurodivergent humans to live happy, actualised and accepted lives but that there is much work to be done societally, culturally and institutionally before this is possible (including the intersectionality with race, gender, trans, queer, disability and other issues, rights and prejudices). Holly also lives with PTSD - like many neurodivergent folk - and is trauma-informed through her yoga and somatic work. She speaks with honesty, clarity and from the heart in order to shed light on her own experience, of living life on her own terms and the benefits - and challenges - that brings. Register here https://ow.ly/ouIM50TFFNg

INTRODUCTION TO NEURODIVERSITY 11 February 2025, 10am - 1pm, online, £20 Register here https://ow.ly/ouIM50TFFNg It’s estimated that at least 20% of the UK’s adult population’s brains work in ways which are not seen as ‘neurotypical’ *, so you’re likely to meet ND people among your colleagues, service users, family and friends. Some of them may be diagnosed with neurological conditions such as autism spectrum condition (ASC), dyslexia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Neurodiversity refers to the concept that brain differences are natural variations – not deficits, disorders or impairments. *Source: Neurodivergent, neurodiversity and neurotypical: a guide to the terms - The Brain Charity The objectives of this session are that by the end of it you will: - Understand Neurodivergence - what it actually is and why it’s important to be aware of it - Develop an overview of different ways of processing and how that impacts ND people accessing the world (and therefore your work or business) - Recognise common triggers, stressors and things to look out for when you are working with ND people (and if you work with the general public, you will be) - Expand your awareness of the multiple possibilities of Neurodivergent experience and joy - how to harness that in your work/workplace About Holly Sutcliffe Holly is a Co-Director of Neurodivergent Friends CIC and is responsible for fundraising and care (HR) and shares strategic responsibilities with the other Co-Directors. As an educator with experience of all ages and in many different roles, a late-diagnosed autistic and the main parent/carer for her disabled daughter, Holly draws on a wide range of personal and professional experience to campaign for and promote neurodivergent acceptance and joy. Holly believes it is possible for neurodivergent humans to live happy, actualised and accepted lives but that there is much work to be done societally, culturally and institutionally before this is possible (including the intersectionality with race, gender, trans, queer, disability and other issues, rights and prejudices). Holly also lives with PTSD - like many neurodivergent folk - and is trauma-informed through her yoga and somatic work. She speaks with honesty, clarity and from the heart in order to shed light on her own experience, of living life on her own terms and the benefits - and challenges - that brings. Register here https://ow.ly/ouIM50TFFNg

INTRODUCTION TO NEURODIVERSITY 11 February 2025, 10am - 1pm, online, £20 Register here https://ow.ly/ouIM50TFFNg It’s estimated that at least 20% of the UK’s adult population’s brains work in ways which are not seen as ‘neurotypical’ *, so you’re likely to meet ND people among your colleagues, service users, family and friends. Some of them may be diagnosed with neurological conditions such as autism spectrum condition (ASC), dyslexia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Neurodiversity refers to the concept that brain differences are natural variations – not deficits, disorders or impairments. *Source: Neurodivergent, neurodiversity and neurotypical: a guide to the terms - The Brain Charity The objectives of this session are that by the end of it you will: - Understand Neurodivergence - what it actually is and why it’s important to be aware of it - Develop an overview of different ways of processing and how that impacts ND people accessing the world (and therefore your work or business) - Recognise common triggers, stressors and things to look out for when you are working with ND people (and if you work with the general public, you will be) - Expand your awareness of the multiple possibilities of Neurodivergent experience and joy - how to harness that in your work/workplace About Holly Sutcliffe Holly is a Co-Director of Neurodivergent Friends CIC and is responsible for fundraising and care (HR) and shares strategic responsibilities with the other Co-Directors. As an educator with experience of all ages and in many different roles, a late-diagnosed autistic and the main parent/carer for her disabled daughter, Holly draws on a wide range of personal and professional experience to campaign for and promote neurodivergent acceptance and joy. Holly believes it is possible for neurodivergent humans to live happy, actualised and accepted lives but that there is much work to be done societally, culturally and institutionally before this is possible (including the intersectionality with race, gender, trans, queer, disability and other issues, rights and prejudices). Holly also lives with PTSD - like many neurodivergent folk - and is trauma-informed through her yoga and somatic work. She speaks with honesty, clarity and from the heart in order to shed light on her own experience, of living life on her own terms and the benefits - and challenges - that brings. Register here https://ow.ly/ouIM50TFFNg

INTRODUCTION TO NEURODIVERSITY 11 February 2025, 10am - 1pm, online, £20 Register here https://ow.ly/ouIM50TFFNg It’s estimated that at least 20% of the UK’s adult population’s brains work in ways which are not seen as ‘neurotypical’ *, so you’re likely to meet ND people among your colleagues, service users, family and friends. Some of them may be diagnosed with neurological conditions such as autism spectrum condition (ASC), dyslexia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Neurodiversity refers to the concept that brain differences are natural variations – not deficits, disorders or impairments. *Source: Neurodivergent, neurodiversity and neurotypical: a guide to the terms - The Brain Charity The objectives of this session are that by the end of it you will: - Understand Neurodivergence - what it actually is and why it’s important to be aware of it - Develop an overview of different ways of processing and how that impacts ND people accessing the world (and therefore your work or business) - Recognise common triggers, stressors and things to look out for when you are working with ND people (and if you work with the general public, you will be) - Expand your awareness of the multiple possibilities of Neurodivergent experience and joy - how to harness that in your work/workplace About Holly Sutcliffe Holly is a Co-Director of Neurodivergent Friends CIC and is responsible for fundraising and care (HR) and shares strategic responsibilities with the other Co-Directors. As an educator with experience of all ages and in many different roles, a late-diagnosed autistic and the main parent/carer for her disabled daughter, Holly draws on a wide range of personal and professional experience to campaign for and promote neurodivergent acceptance and joy. Holly believes it is possible for neurodivergent humans to live happy, actualised and accepted lives but that there is much work to be done societally, culturally and institutionally before this is possible (including the intersectionality with race, gender, trans, queer, disability and other issues, rights and prejudices). Holly also lives with PTSD - like many neurodivergent folk - and is trauma-informed through her yoga and somatic work. She speaks with honesty, clarity and from the heart in order to shed light on her own experience, of living life on her own terms and the benefits - and challenges - that brings. Register here https://ow.ly/ouIM50TFFNg

INTRODUCTION TO NEURODIVERSITY 11 February 2025, 10am - 1pm, online, £20 Register here https://ow.ly/ouIM50TFFNg It’s estimated that at least 20% of the UK’s adult population’s brains work in ways which are not seen as ‘neurotypical’ *, so you’re likely to meet ND people among your colleagues, service users, family and friends. Some of them may be diagnosed with neurological conditions such as autism spectrum condition (ASC), dyslexia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Neurodiversity refers to the concept that brain differences are natural variations – not deficits, disorders or impairments. *Source: Neurodivergent, neurodiversity and neurotypical: a guide to the terms - The Brain Charity The objectives of this session are that by the end of it you will: - Understand Neurodivergence - what it actually is and why it’s important to be aware of it - Develop an overview of different ways of processing and how that impacts ND people accessing the world (and therefore your work or business) - Recognise common triggers, stressors and things to look out for when you are working with ND people (and if you work with the general public, you will be) - Expand your awareness of the multiple possibilities of Neurodivergent experience and joy - how to harness that in your work/workplace About Holly Sutcliffe Holly is a Co-Director of Neurodivergent Friends CIC and is responsible for fundraising and care (HR) and shares strategic responsibilities with the other Co-Directors. As an educator with experience of all ages and in many different roles, a late-diagnosed autistic and the main parent/carer for her disabled daughter, Holly draws on a wide range of personal and professional experience to campaign for and promote neurodivergent acceptance and joy. Holly believes it is possible for neurodivergent humans to live happy, actualised and accepted lives but that there is much work to be done societally, culturally and institutionally before this is possible (including the intersectionality with race, gender, trans, queer, disability and other issues, rights and prejudices). Holly also lives with PTSD - like many neurodivergent folk - and is trauma-informed through her yoga and somatic work. She speaks with honesty, clarity and from the heart in order to shed light on her own experience, of living life on her own terms and the benefits - and challenges - that brings. Register here https://ow.ly/ouIM50TFFNg

This week is #WorldAutismAcceptanceWeek - let's think about some of the most common misconceptions: 𝟏. 𝐍𝐞𝐮𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫: Perhaps the most common misconception is that neurodiversity equates to a disorder or pathology. In reality, the concept acknowledges the natural variation in human cognition and behaviour. Conditions like autism, ADHD, dyslexia and others are not inherently negative in of themselves. 𝟐. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐩𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐧𝐞𝐮𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐧𝐞𝐰: You will have heard others say - perhaps thought yourself - that neurodiversity is a recent concept. Is it simply Political Correctness or Wokism gone mad! The term itself is thought to have originated from the sociologist Judy Singer in the late '90s (and for some of us that seems very recent, but it means it's already almost 30 years old...) but the idea has roots in the disability rights movement of the late 80s and draws on earlier ideas from various fields. 𝟑. 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐧𝐞𝐮𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐦𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐬: Many think that embracing neurodiversity means ignoring challenges that neurodivergent individuals may face. Instead, a more accurate (and helpful) take is to recognise and mitigate or assist with these challenges (which can be incredibly varied, nuanced and 'masked') while rejecting the assumption that the same individuals need to be "fixed" or cured in some way - remoulded, in order to fit into a neurotypical way of being. 𝟒. 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐧𝐞𝐮𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐬: While it's true that some neurodivergent individuals excel in certain areas, such as mathematics, science, or the arts, not all neurodivergent individuals possess extraordinary talents. Just like neurotypical individuals, neurodivergent individuals have a wide range of abilities and interests. 𝟓. 𝐍𝐞𝐮𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐬𝐦: While autism is often associated with neurodiversity, and can dominate any discussions, the concept applies to a much broader range of neurological experiences, including ADHD, dyslexia, Tourette syndrome, and more. Recognising and accepting neurodiversity means acknowledging the diversity of human cognition, behaviour and experience. 𝟔. 𝐍𝐞𝐮𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 '𝐨𝐧𝐞-𝐬𝐢𝐳𝐞-𝐟𝐢𝐭𝐬-𝐚𝐥𝐥' 𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: It can be easy to think supporting those with neurodiversity means applying the same accommodations or strategies to each individual. In reality, neurodiversity recognises that each person is unique and may require different forms of support or accommodation based on their individual needs and preferences. We instinctively understand that when we think of things like culture, learning styles and educational capacity - so it should (in theory at least) be easy to adopt this flexibility, as long as we remember to ask the individuals concerned what will actually help them!

What do you think of when you think of neurodiversity? Did you know that up to 20% of the population is neurodivergent? A few years ago, if you searched “neurodivergent,” the first results would likely be something about autism. That might have caused you to think about a certain movie or show. Or your friend who found themselves overwhelmed in trying to care for their newly-diagnosed child exhibiting more extreme displays of behavior. You may not have thought about ADHD or dyslexia, OCD or Tourette’s – also part of the neurodiversity umbrella. You also may not have thought about Simon Sinek or Richard Branson. Morgan Harper Nichols or David Beckham. (Who have ADHD, dyslexia, autism, and Tourette’s, respectively.) If you have interest, care, or concern for including the neurodivergent population in your workforce or improving their experience – then “The Canary Code” is the book for you. Like a canary in the coalmine, neurodivergent people catch things before it’s too late. They are particularly adept at pointing out systemic issues before things start ripping at the seams. But they are often left out. In the U.S., 30-40% of neurodivergent people and 85% of autistic college grads struggle with unemployment. Those who can mask their way into the workforce often suffer silently. Current practices can make it unnecessarily difficult to contribute in ways that are meaningful for both the individual and the organization. This Canary Code is for anyone who: ·        Wants to better understand neurodiversity across a variety of settings and forms ·        Needs practical checklists for incorporating principles into practice ·        Is tasked with improving the workplace ·        Learns well with real-life examples ·        Cares about how to keep the canaries alive – and thriving While the book is focused on neurodiversity, it shows how to improve practices so that anyone with differences – from cultural to physical – can more fully participate in the workforce. Author Ludmila Praslova, Ph.D., SHRM-SCP, Âû is the first person to write for the Harvard Business Review from an autistic perspective. Along with her own lived experience, she brings together the experiences of others to back it all in solid, proven practice and research. Ludmila – my friend, a favorite thought partner, and one of the most empathetic people I know – helps us understand the difference between success barriers and access barriers. She helps us embrace different paths to leadership. And she makes it all tangible, useful, and accessible as she goes.   It's launch day for the Canary Code. Do yourself and the neurodivergent people you love a favor. Grab yourself a copy. #neurodiversity #inclusion #talent #autism #culture

Have you ever wondered why landing a job in a niche industry as a neurodivergent adult often feels like scaling Mount Everest? It's not just about qualifications or skills; it's about navigating a world that often misunderstands and underestimates the talents of neurodivergent individuals. In recent years, there's been a growing awareness of neurodiversity—the idea that neurological differences, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others, are natural variations of the human brain. Yet, despite this recognition, many neurodivergent adults still face significant barriers in the workplace. One of the biggest challenges? Pervasive misconceptions perpetuated by industry leaders who champion messaging like "autism is a superpower." But let's be clear: autism isn't a magical gift bestowed upon a select few. It's a complex journey filled with challenges and triumphs, just like any other. The truth is, there isn’t one reason why it’s so hard for neurodivergent adults to secure employment. It's a combination of factors, including stigma, lack of understanding, and limited accommodations. But here's the kicker: there are millions of neurodivergent adults out there, each armed with unique talents and abilities, ready to conquer the world. So, to all the employers out there, here's a simple plea: listen. Listen to our needs, our aspirations, and our dreams. We're not asking for special treatment; we're asking for a chance to shine. Stop treating all neurodivergent individuals like they are the same. Embrace the diversity within the neurodivergent community and recognize the strengths that each individual brings to the table. It's time to break free from the shackles of black-and-white thinking surrounding neurodiversity. Let's embrace the spectrum in all its vibrant hues and celebrate the richness it brings to our lives. And hey, if you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure, don't fret. Organizations like Autism Speaks, the Autism Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), and the Autism Society are here to lend a helping hand. It takes courage, openness, and a willingness to learn to create a truly inclusive workplace. So, here's an invitation: let's rewrite the narrative surrounding neurodiversity. Let's pave the way for a future where diversity is celebrated, and everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Are you with me? Let's make waves, break barriers, and build a world where every voice is heard and every individual is valued. The journey towards neurodiversity equality won't be easy, but trust me—it'll be worth it. Feel free to question this article and comment to spark discussion and raise awareness about the importance of empowering neurodivergent individuals in the workplace. Let's make a difference together!

What Makes Neurodiversity So Powerful? 💛 Imagine unlocking incredible strengths by simply embracing the unique wiring of Neurodivergent brains. Neurodiversity celebrates these differences, recognizing conditions like Autism, ADHD, and Dyslexia as natural variations with distinct advantages. For me, these conditions represent different wiring in our brains. They aren't flaws—they're unique patterns that come with their own perks: - Autistic people often have amazing attention to detail and strong analytical skills thanks to their unique neural connectivity and processing. - ADHDers bring high levels of creativity, energy, and innovative thinking, driven by differences in dopamine regulation. - Dyslexic thinkers are often pros in holistic and spatial problem-solving due to their unique cognitive processing styles in the brain's visual and spatial regions. Why is Neurodiversity Inclusion a Critical Cultural Shift 🚀 Living in a world that's mostly designed for neurotypical people can be really stressful and challenging for those who are Neurodivergent. Creating an environment that is inclusive of them means providing the right support and accommodations, such as flexible working hours, quiet spaces, clear communication, and understanding each person's unique needs. But it doesn’t stop there. It’s also about fostering psychologically safe spaces where everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas and seeking help without fear of stigma. This involves a culture shift, where both leaders and employees move away from traditional views of talent and success and start embracing diverse perspectives and strengths. At Novartis, our various Disability/Neurodiversity Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) work very closely with Stephie Elms to create a more inclusive environment for all persons with Disabilities and those part of the Neurodiversity community. Together, we are making a difference, and I could not be prouder of our work. Let’s break down stereotypes and highlight the unique strengths that Neurodivergent people bring to the world. For those of you who are Neurodivergent or closely interact with Neurodivergent people, what unique strengths have you seen? Share your experiences below! ♻️ Repost to spread awareness! Tagging some of my amazing #ERG colleagues - Bernhard, Laurent, ITIKA and James - to only name a few. Everyone, thank you for your hard work in helping shift mindsets about Disability. ID: A colorful illustration of a brain with interconnected neural pathways in vibrant colors, symbolizing neurodiversity. The background features a calming gradient of blues and purples. Icons representing autism, ADHD, and dyslexia are integrated into the pathways, highlighting the strengths associated with these conditions. This is an AI-generated image. #Disability #Neurodiversity #Inclusion #Diversity #Accessibility #CelebrateDifferences #A11y #BreakDownBarriers #Autism #ADHD #Dyslexia #DisabilityPrideMonth