Summer Reflections and Exciting Plans

It’s been a full and inspiring few months here at Collectively Diverse C.I.C., and I wanted to share a little update about what I’ve been working on and what’s ahead. As many of you know, my work sits at the intersection of neurodiversity, mental health, and education, and this year has been a real opportunity to deepen that mission.

Growing the Compass Panel

One of the most rewarding parts of the last few months has been collaborating with the brilliant minds on the Compass Panel. This collective of specialists and advocates, comprising myself, Victoria Bagnall, Pete Jarrett, Fin O’Regan, and Dr Helen Ross, brings a wealth of knowledge and lived experience around neurodiversity in education and the workplace. Together, we’ve been sharing strategies and progressing essential discussions to take neuroinclusion beyond token gestures.

It’s been especially energising to see how our combined perspectives, from executive function to dyscalculia, ADHD, and systemic inclusion, can help schools and employers create environments where neurodivergent people don’t just survive but thrive.

If you’d like to learn more about the Compass Panel, I shared an introduction here on LinkedIn.

Upcoming Conference: Neurodiversity Network

Neurodiversity in Education

Looking ahead, in September I’ll be speaking at the Neurodiversity Network Conference at Staffordshire University. My session focuses on Mental Health in Neurodiverse Young People, a topic that’s very close to my heart and central to so many conversations I have with schools, parents, and professionals.

Alongside presenting, I’ll be taking part in a panel discussion with my fellow Compass Panel members. It’s a fantastic opportunity to share insights, answer questions, and connect with others working to build a more inclusive society.

If you’re attending, I’d love to say hello in person. Details are at neurodiversitynetwork.co.uk.

Training Projects and Neurodiversity Initiatives 

Outside the conference circuit, I’ve been working on several training programmes and new initiatives to help individuals and organisations better understand the experiences of neurodivergent people. From workshop development to research partnerships, these projects are all aimed at creating more inclusive environments.

It’s also been a time of reflection on how much progress we’ve made in neuroinclusion, and how much there still is to do. I’m continually inspired by the resilience and creativity of neurodivergent communities, and grateful to play a small role in amplifying those strengths.

Staying Connected

If you’d like to keep up with our work at Collectively Diverse or find out more about any of these projects, you’re always welcome to get in touch. Thank you for being part of this journey and for everything you do to make the world more inclusive.