Neurodiversity Celebration Week
Neurodiversity Celebration Week is an opportunity for all of us to recognise and celebrate the many different ways people think, learn and experience the world. With around one in five people having at least one form of neurodivergence, this week encourages us to reflect on both the strengths and the challenges that neurodivergent people may experience.
What is Neurodiversity?
Every human brain is unique, and we all process information in our own way. In that sense, we are all neurodiverse. For around 20% of the population, these differences are more pronounced. Neurodivergence includes autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia and Tourette’s. Some people have a formal diagnosis, while many others navigate life without one.
Neurodiversity Celebration Week invites us to recognise the value, insight and skills that neurodivergent people bring, while also reflecting on how we can reduce barriers to employment, services and support.
Different, Not Broken
Over recent months, Notts SVSS staff have taken part in CPD‑accredited Neurodiversity in the Workplace training. Developed by Thrive and adapted in‑house to reflect the needs of our clients, the training emphasises appreciation, understanding and practical change.
Just as you wouldn’t use an Xbox controller to play on a PlayStation, we shouldn’t expect everyone to navigate a world designed around neurotypical norms. The training highlighted many ways staff are already removing barriers to support — from making catch‑up calls after gaps in contact, to offering shorter sessions, to adapting therapeutic approaches to meet survivors’ needs.
For staff, the training also reinforced how small adjustments can make a big difference in the workplace. Creating sensory‑safe desk spaces, sharing meeting agendas in advance and offering fidget tools during training are simple steps that support neurodivergent colleagues. It also gave us a chance to recognise what we already do well: easy referrals into Access to Work, proactive managerial support to prevent overwhelm, and tools like Recite:Me across our website and intranet.
Changes to Email Signatures
Over the coming days, you may notice updates to staff email signatures. Many colleagues will now display Neurodiversity Champion or Neurodiversity Manager logos.
We are also proud to have joined the Disability Confident Scheme, which supports employers to reduce the disability employment gap by improving recruitment, retention and development of disabled staff. With 49% of our clients disclosing a disability*, removing barriers and creating an environment where disabled staff can thrive is essential. When our workforce reflects the people we support, it strengthens trust and reinforces that their lives, choices and dignity come first.
* Figures taken from our 2024-2025 Annual Report
