NEURODIVERSITY CELEBRATION WEEK

Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences.

Together let’s change the narrative to understand, accept, and celebrate neurodiversity! 

What is neurodiversity?

When it comes to inclusion, neurodiversity refers to a world where neurological differences are recognised and respected as all other human variations.

Depending on how our brains are wired we think, move, process information and communicate in different ways. Many people in our community use neurodiversity as an umbrella term used to describe alternative thinking styles such as Dyslexia, DCD (Dyspraxia), Dyscalculia, Autism and ADHD. But regardless of labels, neurodiversity is about recognising those who think differently. Here at Bentley we value different thinkers and diversity of thought! 
 
Approximately 15-20% of population has a neurological difference.  Instead of labelling people with deficits or disorders, when we use the term neurodiversity, we take a balanced view of an individual’s unique strengths and challenges. Many ‘challenges’ neurodivergent people face are more to do with the environment and systems they are placed in, often designed by a majority population.

Neurodiversity encompasses the remarkable spectrum of diversity found within the human brain and cognition. Neurodiversity embraces the array of differences in how our brains function and the unique behavioural traits they produce. It's a celebration of the fact that brains look, process, and store sensory information differently.

Did you know?

  • We have a Neurodiversity & Disability workstream here at Bentley
  • Bentley took part in the Top Employer Neurodiversity Pilot
  • No two people are the same and so we will all have different profiles
  • Although we talk about specific neuro differences such as Autism and Dyslexia, the reality is that these can co-occur
  • Every neurodivergent individual has a unique pattern of strengths and challenges
  • It is important that we take a person-centred approach, by tailoring strategies to each individual 
  • It is important to harness the strengths and talents of neurodivergent individuals, this helps to build confidence and self-esteem, and ensures individuals are given the opportunity to flourish.