What is neurodiversity?

The term neurodiversity often refers to neurological differences such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia (and ‘cousin’ conditions such as dyscalculia and dyspraxia), but it can also include other neurological variations related to medical issues, mental health conditions and acquired brain injuries.

It is a way of talking about groups of people within our society whose brains have developed or function differently from the majority or the ‘neurotypical’. However, individual variation is key to understanding neurodivergence; no two neurodivergent experiences and needs are the same.

Neurodiversity, first coined by sociologist Judy singer in the 1990s, is an evolving term and to some degree there is no agreed consensus on what constitutes neurodiversity. However the focus is on difference, not disorder, and inclusion of neurodivergent thinking reframes neurological differences as part of natural human variation. This ‘non-medicalised’ approach encourages understanding, acceptance and inclusion; instead of thinking about how to fix ‘problems’, supporting neurodivergent needs encompasses raising awareness, adapting the environment and providing strategies for different ways of thinking and learning. It’s also about recognising that people's perspectives and neurodivergent identity's are valuable and relevant.