Do you know about neurodiversity? Watch our new video series to learn more

Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin Integrated Care System (ICS) is excited to release a new neurodiversity awareness video series this month (March 2023). These videos have been produced to help us all understand the basics of neurodiversity issues and build genuine and empathetic relationships with neurodivergent people.

Neurodiversity describes the differences in how all our brains process information. 1 in 7 people in the UK have neurodevelopmental differences, so it’s likely we all know or work with someone who is neurodivergent. Examples include autism, ADHD, dyspraxia and dyslexia. Neurodivergent people, especially those who are autistic, sometimes face barriers to accessing healthcare services. Sometimes health professionals fail to understand their health needs, making their healthcare experience disproportionately worse.

Each short, animated video explores a different topic or issue, and includes interesting stories from people with lived experience to give you a new perspective. We look at the challenges neurodivergent people may face such as sensitivity to light and noise. Others may struggle to express their ideas and feelings or interpret those of other people. But the strengths of neurodiversity come from seeing the world differently.

The video series includes:

1. Neurodiversity - what is it exactly?
2. Strengths and challenges - what are some of the unique characteristics of neurodivergent people?
3. Health inequalities - how does being neurodivergent affect access to and experience of healthcare?
4. Inclusive language - what’s the appropriate language to use when talking about neurodiversity?
5. Supporting neurodiversity - ideas for supporting neurodiverse patients, service users and colleagues and embracing neurodiversity.

Dr Priya George, Clinical Lead for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin ICS said: “I am very excited to launch these videos, so we can all feel more confident understanding neurodivergent people. We should all strive to use inclusive language, notice signs of sensory overwhelm and respect people’s need for space.

“I would encourage everyone to watch these five great videos, which we hope will raise awareness of some of the issues, help us to build more understanding and supportive relationships with neurodivergent patients, service users and colleagues, and give us the confidence to embrace our differences and learn from each other.”

To watch the videos please click here.