Monday 13th – Sunday 19th March 2023 marks Neurodiversity Celebration Week across the UK.
The week is a worldwide initiative that aims to transform how neurodivergent individuals are perceived and supported by recognising the many talents and advantages of being neurodivergent, while creating more inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate differences and empower every individual.
Through the week, we aim to raise awareness, acceptance and understanding of neurodiversity in our University community and celebrate and support our students and staff who are neurodivergent. You’ll have the chance to learn more about the lived experiences of members of our community, how we can be more accessible and the advice and support available. Check out some of what’s happening below.
What’s on
After the success of last year’s week of events to support this celebration, our Faculty of Health and Life Sciences is again leading a number of events and activities.
The highlight of the week is a keynote address by renowned sociologist, Professor Jason Arday, who has overcome numerous barriers to become the youngest appointed black professor at Cambridge University.
| Event details | Content | Eventbrite, Zoom link, Location |
| KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Professor Jason Arday ‘Even Flow: Understanding and Navigating Neurodiversity’
Monday 13th March 13:00-14:00
Open to all staff and students across the University |
Prof Jason Arday is a renowned sociologist, and researcher of race, inequality, and education, but at three years old he was diagnosed with global development delay and autism spectrum disorder. He did not learn to speak until he was 11 and could not read or write until the age of 18. Now, at 37, Jason is to become the youngest black professor ever appointed at the University of Cambridge. We are delighted to have Jason here as a keynote speaker to launch our Neurodiversity Celebration Week and as a guest lecturer on the Science and Society Civic Service Award. Jason will talk about his lived experience of growing up with autism. | Hybrid:
Room: 502 Teaching Hub LT1 or online via Zoom. Please book on by Eventbrite for in person and online tickets
|
| Dr Jenna Kenyani
What does it mean to be neurodivergent?
Tuesday 14th March 13:00-14:00
Open to all staff and students across the University |
Dr Jenna Kenyani, EDIW Advisor and proud Dyslexic will talk about being neurodivergent and the different terms and labels. | Online
Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/what-does-it-mean-to-be-neurodivergent-tickets-566416044637 |
| Rebecca Duffus
Supporting and Celebrating the Autistic Identity
Wednesday 15th March 13:00 – 14:00
Open to all staff and students across the University |
Join Rebecca Duffus as she explores key strategies to support your autistic students, children or colleagues (or those with social communication differences but perhaps without a diagnosis). She will explore neurodiversity affirming theories of autism as well as ways to support young people to have a positive understanding of their autistic identity. | Online
Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/supporting-and-celebrating-the-autistic-identity-tickets-560759646197
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| Neurodivergent PGR meet up
Thursday 16th March 14:30-15:30
All PGR students across the University |
Opportunity to meet up in person with other neurodivergent PGR students from across the campus to share tips and support | In person
Eleanor Rathbone Building Board Room Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/pgr-student-neurodivergent-meet-up-tickets-566622381797 |
| Gareth Siggee
University of Liverpool adjustments and support for Neurodivergent staff
Friday 17th March 13:00-14:00
Open to all staff or PGR students |
This session will explore workplace adjustments and support available to remove barriers faced by neurodivergent staff members. Throughout the session we will consider the University of Liverpool work environment and identify how we can remove barriers and identify and access support and adjustments in our work role. | Online
Eventbrite: |
Further information
More information about Neurodiversity and events taking place nationwide as part of the week can be found on the Neurodiversity Celebration Week website. Keep up-to-date with what’s happening on campus and nationally throughout the week on Twitter using #UoLNeurodiversityWeek or contact Kate Hammond on kateh@liverpool.ac.uk.