In this episode of Neurodiversity with Theo Smith, Sarah Dixon, Director of the Accessible Learning Foundation, shares her inspiring journey from a successful career in law and property to becoming a passionate advocate for neurodivergent communities.

Motivated by her experiences as a parent of neurodivergent children, Sarah discusses the importance of early identification and support for neurodivergent individuals in schools, workplaces, and prisons.

She highlights the challenges faced in these areas, including funding and cultural barriers, and emphasises the need for systemic change to create a more inclusive society.

Sarah also shares her aspirations for the future of ALF and how individuals can get involved in supporting this vital work.

• Sarah transitioned from a successful legal career to advocate for neurodivergent communities.
• Her personal experiences as a parent motivated her advocacy work.
• Early identification and support for neurodivergent individuals are crucial.
• The Accessible Learning Foundation focuses on schools, prisons, and workplaces.
• Funding and time constraints are significant barriers in education.
• Cultural change is needed in workplaces to support neurodivergent employees.
• Diagnosis can empower individuals to understand their strengths and challenges.
• Community engagement is essential for driving change in neurodiversity advocacy.
• Sarah emphasizes the importance of every conversation being a positive one.
• The future of ALF includes expanding early identification programs and community outreach.

You Can find out more here:

https://www.accessiblelearningfoundation.org/

In our latest podcast episode, we had the pleasure of hosting Steve Collinson, Chief HR Officer at Zurich Insurance UK, to discuss a crucial topic: neurodiversity in the workplace. 🤝 🔍 Key Takeaways: - **Rethinking Recruitment**: Zurich is pioneering inclusive hiring processes to remove barriers for neurodivergent candidates. - **Data-Driven Insights**: Research revealed that 63% of neurodivergent adults feel employers see neurodiversity as a red flag. Zurich is using this data to drive change. - **Practical Initiatives**: From clear job descriptions to flexible interview formats, Zurich is implementing strategies to support neurodivergent individuals. - **Employee Feedback**: Listening to neurodiverse colleagues has been instrumental in shaping Zurich's initiatives. - **Supportive Environment**: Zurich offers neurodiversity assessments and flexible working options, ensuring employees can thrive. Steve shared Zurich's journey, emphasizing the importance of concrete actions over mere presentations. With 1 in 7 people in the UK being neurodivergent, it's vital to create an inclusive environment where everyone can succeed. 🌈 Zurich's efforts are not just about compliance but about genuinely making the workplace better for everyone. By focusing on neurodiversity, they are tapping into a valuable talent pool and fostering a culture of understanding and support. 🌟 Let's continue to push for inclusivity and make our workplaces a haven for all talents. 💼✨ #Neurodiversity #InclusiveWorkplace #HR #Recruitment #DiversityAndInclusion #ZurichInsurance #WorkplaceInclusion #NeurodivergentTalent #EmployeeSupport #FlexibleWorking #DataDrivenHR

In this episode Theo Smith speaks with Nicole Bateman, a SEND advisor and co-founder of the Super Sensory Squad.

They discuss Nicole's journey from being a teacher to advocating for children with sensory needs, the importance of understanding sensory processing, and practical strategies for parents and activity providers to support children.

The conversation highlights the significance of creating inclusive environments and the impact of parental experiences on education.

Takeaways

• Nicole Bateman is a SEND advisor and co-founder of the Super Sensory Squad.
• The Super Sensory Squad uses penguin characters to teach children about sensory systems.
• Understanding sensory and emotional regulation is crucial for children's learning.
• Nicole's journey began after her son was diagnosed with epilepsy and autism.
• Parents often leave teaching roles to support their children with additional needs.
• It's important to look beneath a child's behavior to understand their needs.
• Creating a predictable environment helps children feel in control.
• Activity providers need training to support children with sensory differences.
• Regulation strategies can include proprioceptive input and sensory-friendly activities.
• Future aspirations include getting the Super Sensory Squad animated for wider reach.