Neurodiversity network
How we’re championing neurodiversity at Specsavers We want to celebrate the amazing uniqueness of our neurodiverse colleagues, through our Neurodiversity Network (NDN). This is a safe space where people can come together to learn, share and champion each other’s greatness. There is no expectation on anyone in the network - whether you are a silent observer, want to push for change, or just want to be part of the conversation, everyone is welcome. We also recognise that you may have friends, family or colleagues who are neurodiverse - this network is a forum which you can use for information and guidance, to offer the best support to them you can. Or, you may just have an interest in understanding how you can be a neurodiversity ally and support the wider community. Everyone can play a part. The NDN is a safe, supportive, educational space where individual diversity is celebrated. It’s available across all support offices and stores in the UK and ROI, with groups on Teams, Connect+ and Yammer. The group’s aim is to come together to celebrate all things neurodiverse, while removing barriers and stigma, and increasing awareness and understanding. The space is absolutely inclusive, and participants do not need to have any links to neurodiversity - just a desire to celebrate and support others, and to learn some interesting things along the way. Any colleague is able to join the network by emailing nd@specsavers.com. Statement of purpose
What is neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity is a concept that’s been around for some time. It means that brain differences are just that: differences. Conditions like ADHD and autism are not ‘abnormal’; they’re simply variations of the human brain. There are real physiological differences between a neurotypical and a neurodiverse brain - so what we know about neurodiversity is rooted in science. For example, brain imaging studies show that there are visible differences between people with learning and thinking differences and their peers. Those differences appear in how the brain is ‘wired’, and how it functions to support thinking, learning and expression. Science and sociological thinking have evolved so that nowadays, neurodiversity is celebrated. In times gone by, the focus was on what neurodiverse people found difficult. Today, the focus is on celebrating the unique gifts that a neurodiverse person can bring to any situation, and removing any barriers to them achieving their full potential. Do you know what Elon Musk, Keira Knightley, Jamie Oliver, Albert Einstein, Will.I.Am, Steve Jobs and Whoopi Goldberg had or have in common? They are of course successful in their fields, and household names. They are also all neurodiverse, having either dyslexia or autism, and in some cases, both. What’s more, in the business world, 40% of self-made millionaires are dyslexic. These people achieved great things because of their neurodiversity, not in spite of it. Neurodiversity brings lots of very positive attributes, which enable neurodiverse people to achieve great things. Celebrating neurodiversity
Join the network
For more information on neurodiversity please click here to go to the Thrive pack
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