This Neurodiversity Celebration Week we are launching our Neurodiversity Forum.
Neurodiversity Celebration Week takes place from 16 to 22 March. This week is dedicated to recognising and celebrating the unique strengths and perspectives of neurodiverse individuals within our communities and workplaces.
The week aims to raise awareness about neurodiversity, promoting understanding and acceptance while challenging stereotypes and misconceptions. It’s a time to foster a more inclusive environment for all.
What is neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity refers to the diversity of human brains and minds. It is an umbrella term for both people who are neurodivergent and neurotypical. It acknowledges that neurological differences, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia and others, are natural variations of the human experience. Embracing neurodiversity means valuing and respecting these differences.
Approximately 15-20% of population has a neurological difference.
Creating a safe culture for neurodivergent people
The Bishop of Buckingham, the Rt Revd Dave Bull, is Lead Bishop for Equality Diversity and Inclusion in Oxford Diocese. He said:
“Every person we ever meet is precious to God, and they have the potential to make a one-of-a-kind contribution to the life of the church. Our prejudice stops us from seeing this potential and our EDI work is about helping us learn to see all people as Jesus sees them.
“Many of us have friends and loved ones who are neurodiverse and we see them encountering misunderstanding and prejudice. Neurodiversity Celebration Week gives us an opportunity to change the culture of our churches so they become places where it feels safe for them to disclose their differences. Where people feel they can be fully themselves and freely use the gifts that they bring – often because of their different way of thinking – our churches become more like the communities God designed them to be.”
The Diocesan Neurodiversity Forum
Our new Neurodiversity Forum will serve people across the diocese. The forum is for lay and ordained people in leadership who identify as neurodivergent, whether they have been diagnosed or not. It will be a space to make connections, support and encourage each other. We all have strategies for ways to help ourselves and some things we find really easy so great to share.
The Revd Jane Hemmings, the Area Director of Ordinands for Dorchester, said:
“Things can be tough in ministry for everyone. Our neurodiversities can be very helpful or make things a bit more difficult. Want to share wisdom and support each other. We expect it to develop into what it needs to.”
Details of a big launch event on 13 May at 2-4pm this year will be made available in the coming months.
How to get involved
- Educate yourself and others: Learn about neurodiversity and share your knowledge with friends, family, and colleagues. Start by watching the following video.
- Promote inclusive activities: Schools and churches can organise events or workshops to educate and celebrate neurodiversity.
- Support neurodiverse individuals: Listen to their experiences, advocate for their needs, and champion policies that support inclusion.
If you want to get involved, email jane.hemmings@oxford.anglican.org.