Last week, the inaugural Neurodiverse Business Awards ceremony took place at the Grand Connaught Rooms in London, celebrating the efforts of businesses and individuals to neurodiversity and neuroinclusion in the workplace.
Among the finalists for the awards was our very own Lisa Thrower, Internal Systems Manager at RSK Biocensus, who had been shortlisted for ‘Role Model of the Year’ for her work with the RSK Neurodiversity Network.
We could not be prouder with the efforts that Lisa has made, and she is an amazing credit to both herself, and the Neurodiversity Network as a whole, of which she co-chairs alongside Emily Clarke, Nature-based Solutions Lead within RSK Group.
The RSK Neurodiversity Network, created in 2022 and supported by over 350 members, champions and celebrates our commitment to neurodiversity, with the aim of raising awareness and increasing acceptance of neurodivergence.
Someone who has neurodivergence has traits in common with a neurodevelopmental condition, which means their brain processes things differently to the majority of the population, who are often referred to as being neurotypical. Common neurodevelopmental conditions include attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, autism spectrum condition and dyspraxia (developmental coordination disorder).
Neurodivergent colleagues can face challenges in the workplace that are unique to them. These can include needing support with planning and time management, experiencing environmental challenges due to sensory processing differences, differing communication styles and needing writing materials designed with accessibility in mind.
The Neurodiversity Network provides monthly toolkits to members, containing useful information, upcoming dates of events, member meetings and awareness days, as well as documents and links to support services and resources to help with those dealing with neurodiversity themselves, or wanting to learn more and understand neurodiversity as a whole.
The Neurodiversity Network also organises events for their members to attend, whether they are neurodivergent, neurotypical or still exploring, these events are an opportunity for all of us to learn, listen and get involved, and provide amazing insights and awareness into neurodiversity and neuroinclusion.
Congratulations again to Lisa for her recognition at the awards, you can find more information about the RSK Neurodiversity Network and the Neurodiverse Business Awards below: