Monday 21 – Friday 25 March marks Neurodiversity Celebration Week across the UK.  While the World Autism Acceptance Week is Monday 28th March to Sunday 3rd April.

These weeks are worldwide initiatives that aim to transform how neurodivergent individuals are perceived and supported by recognising the many talents and advantages of being neurodivergent, while creating more inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate differences and empower every individual.

1 in 7 people of the UK population has a neurodiverse condition

What does it mean to be neurodiverse?

Celebrate neurodiversity here. Watch this 1 minute video to explore the terms below:

‘neurotypical’ brain develops typically in terms of thought patterns & behaviour. This is the dominant neurotype – previously considered as the ‘standard’ brain.

‘neurodivergent’ brain functions and experiences the world in ways different to the dominant, ‘neurotypical’ with unique perspectives and rich characteristics.

‘neurominority’: a group that shares the same divergence 

What is neurodiversity?

You may be familiar with some types of neurodiversity often described as learning differences as these conditions do not impact on IQ, such as conditions including, but not restricted to Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), Dyslexia, Dyspraxia,  Attention Differences (ADHD), Tourette’s.

Neurodivergent individuals are often...

  • Out of the box creatives - High creativity and holistic thinking associated with Dyslexia and Attention Differences.
  • Industry savants - Passionately enthusiastic about their interests, those on the Autistic spectrum tend to be geniuses within their fields.
  • Analytical gurus - Problem solving skills linked with Dyslexia and Autism due to pattern recognition ability (Dyslexia) and superb attention to detail (Autism).
  • Proactive leaders - Proactive approach to tasks, open-mindedness & ability to cope well under pressure.

Famous neurodivergent talent includes: Richard Branson, Founder of the Virgin Group, Steve Jobs, Founder of Apple, Jennifer Anniston, Actor, Ingvar Kamprad, IKEA Founder, Theo Paphitis, Entrepreneur & Dragon's Den star.

 

We are here to help?

Through raising awareness, making adaptations and providing support we can reduce societal stigma and help people to flourish.

Higher Education Darlene Sherwood M 07432595683 E dsainfo@blackpool.ac.uk  
Alternatively find details on our support page and click on this form   

Apprenticeships Mike Willacy M 07984162340 E ApprenticeSupport@blackpool.ac.uk
Alternatively find details on our support page and click on this form   

Further Education E learningsupport@blackpool.ac.uk
Alternatively find details on our support page and click on this form   

B&FC colleagues contact E hradvice@blackpool.ac.uk 

 

Technology can help, explore and access B&FC networked productivity software and training. Get started book a 1:1 through B&FC’s Digital Team bookings.

Read&Write productivity toolbar for example, supporting literacy, the ability to focus, and processing information. See the video for students here, in the workplace here.

SensusAccess a self-service, alternate media solution allows you to change files, URLs, and text, into easier to read/listen to formats.

Glean’s note taking solution records audio notes so you can capture and learn from information more effectively.

Or Drop into the Learning Resource Centres E LRCs@blackpool.ac.uk          

 

Let’s Talk Useful links and resources

 

What is B&FC doing during Neurodiversity Celebration Week?

SS&W and the Students' Union have prepared a week full of content and events to get involved with whether you’re neurodivergent or not.