Inclusive Change at Work
In the community
We want to thank you for attending our workshops in Emersons Green Village Hall, made possible with funding from Emersons Green Town Council. It has been wonderful to meet so many people and spark meaningful conversations about Inclusion.
We offer a variety of ways to collaborate and support your journey. Be sure to join our mailing list to stay informed about our latest projects, exclusive offers, and exciting initiatives.
To help you take your next steps, we’ve curated this page with valuable resources, insights, and new projects, designed to inspire and empower your conversations about neurodiversity. Dive in, explore, and Keep the Conversation Going!
A Recap of the Slides & Discussions
Let's Talk About Neurodiversity: Building an Inclusive Community Together
Date: 16th January 2025
Speaker: Lucy Smith
Key Takeaways From The Evening
Neurodiversity is Common but Overlooked – 1 in 7 people in the UK are neurodivergent, yet many face barriers in employment and inclusion.
Workplace Challenges Persist – Long assessment wait times, lack of disclosure (76%), and limited employer focus (49%) highlight the need for change.
Inclusive Workplaces Matter – Reasonable adjustments and open discussions help create supportive environments.
Younger Generations are Driving Change – 53% of Gen Z identify as neurodivergent, making inclusion more important than ever.
Action is Key – Safe spaces, advocacy, and meaningful support systems help neurodiverse communities thrive
Supporting Neurodivergent Families
Date: 30th January 2025
Speakers: Lucy Smith & SGPC
Key Takeaways From The Evening
Inclusive Spaces Foster Support – Creating environments where neurodivergent individuals feel safe and valued is essential for meaningful inclusion.
Resilience is Key – Building resilience through learning, coping strategies, and supportive frameworks helps neurodivergent families navigate challenges.
Workplace and Education Accessibility Matters – Reasonable adjustments in schools and workplaces ensure neurodivergent individuals can succeed without unnecessary barriers.
Open Dialogue Encourages Understanding – Safe spaces for discussion help break stigma, allowing neurodivergent individuals and allies to share experiences and seek support.
Ongoing Support and Resources Make a Difference – Access to helpful resources, events, and advocacy networks empowers neurodivergent communities to thrive.
Building the Future of Work With Neurodiversity in Mind
Date: 6th February 2025
Speakers: Lucy Smith & Andy Jackson
Key Takeaways From The Evening
Neuroinclusion is a Business Advantage – Embracing neurodiversity leads to increased innovation, productivity, and employee retention. Yet, many workplaces unintentionally create barriers for neurodivergent employees.
The Social Model of Disability Matters – Disability is not about the individual but the barriers in their environment. Simple workplace adjustments, like sensory-friendly spaces and flexible communication styles, can unlock neurodivergent talent.
Inclusion is Needed at Every Career Stage – From recruitment to promotion, neurodivergent employees face unique challenges. Clear job descriptions, structured onboarding, and strengths-based performance reviews help ensure fairness.
Recruitment & Progression Need Reform – Traditional hiring methods often exclude neurodivergent talent. Companies should prioritize skills-based hiring, alternative application methods, and clear promotion pathways.
Actionable Steps Make a Difference – Businesses should start by reviewing hiring practices, improving workplace accessibility, investing in mentorship, implementing inclusive policies, and increasing diverse representation
Menopause and Neurodiversity
Date: 20th February 2025
Speakers: Kirsty Brown, Fitness for Life, & Lucy Smith
Key Takeaways From The Evening
Menopause Can Intensify Neurodivergent Traits – Changes in hormones can amplify difficulties with memory, focus, sensory sensitivity, emotional regulation, and fatigue, making daily life more challenging.
Dopamine & Cognitive Support Are Crucial – Activities like exercise, music, creative outlets, and structured routines help maintain dopamine levels, while a diet rich in protein, omega-3s, and key micronutrients supports brain function.
Self-Regulation Strategies Help Manage Symptoms – Sensory tools, mindfulness techniques, and cognitive-behavioral strategies can help counteract brain fog, mood swings, and attention difficulties.
Hormonal & Cognitive Support Can Be Beneficial – Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) may help some individuals, while structured routines, planners, and reminders aid in managing cognitive challenges.
Community & Environmental Adjustments Matter – Reducing sensory overload, seeking peer support, and creating neuroinclusive workplace environments can improve well-being and productivity for neurodivergent individuals going through menopauseHere's some stuff
Digital Wellbeing for Young People
Date: 6th March 2025
Speakers: Lucy Smith & Emily Chittell
Key Takeaways From The Evening
The Impact of Digital Overuse – Excessive screen time, especially on social media, can negatively affect mental health, as seen in Owen’s experience of using their smartphone to escape emotions but ultimately worsening their mood.
Balancing Digital Consumption – It's important to be mindful of how digital tools influence our emotions and well-being, avoiding over-reliance on social media for coping.
Creating Digital Boundaries – Simplifying digital life can improve mental health, making space for healthier habits and real-world connections.
Support and Adjustments – Neurodivergent individuals may benefit from reasonable adjustments and access-to-work accommodations to create a more balanced digital experience.
Reasonable Adjustments and Access to Work for Neurodiverse Minds
Date: 20th March 2025
Speakers: Lucy Smith & Support Team
Key Takeaways From The Evening
Legal Obligation for Employers: Under the Equality Act 2010, employers must make reasonable adjustments to ensure that disabled employees are not at a substantial disadvantage in the workplace.
Defining Reasonable Adjustments: Adjustments can include changes to the workplace, working arrangements, task execution, or providing necessary support and equipment.
Disclosure and Employer Responsibility: Employees need to disclose their disabilities for employers to act on their duty to make adjustments. Employers are not obligated to assume or act on ambiguous signs of a disability.
Balancing Adjustments with Job Requirements: Adjustments should create fairness without lowering the essential standards of a role. Selection criteria should be inclusive but still maintain job integrity.
The Business and Cultural Benefits: Implementing reasonable adjustments fosters an inclusive workplace, reduces staff turnover, and leads to broader innovations that benefit all employees
Recommended Groups and Services
Articles & Reports
A Rising Tide Lifts All Boats - Jan 2022
Organisations that make an extra effort to recruit, retain, and nurture neurodivergent workers can gain a competitive edge from increased diversity in skills, ways of thinking, and approaches to problem-solving.
30% More Productive: The ROI of a neurodiverse workforce - 2023
New data suggests that 15% to 20%
of the population may be neurodivergent – up from estimates of 5% to 10% just five years ago. This shift underscores the critical need for employers to broaden the horizons of their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts to encompass neuro-inclusion
Half of neurodivergent employees miss work due to lack of support - March 2024
Half of neurodivergent employees have taken time off work due to their neurodivergence, a 5% rise from last year, according to City & Guilds’ Neurodiversity Index. The report also found that 36% received no workplace support, and 18% didn’t know where to seek help.
New Survey by The Harris Poll Reveals Workplace Stigma for Neurodivergent Employees - May 2024
Understood.org, a leading nonprofit empowering more than 70 million neurodivergent people who have learning and thinking differences, such as ADHD and dyslexia, today announced the results of a Harris Poll of over 2,000 U.S. adults ages 18+. The poll shines a light on the challenges and opportunities facing people with learning and thinking differences, such as ADHD, dyslexia, or dyscalculia, in the workplace.
Wired differently: how neurodiversity adds new skillsets to the workplace - Aug 2023
Wired differently: how neurodiversity adds new skillsets to the workplace
From the arts to the law, employers are seeing conditions such as autism and ADHD can have more benefits than drawbacks.
Embracing The Strengths Of Neurodiversity In The Workplace - Nov 2024
Neurodiversity is gaining recognition as an asset in workplaces, but for many neurodivergent
individuals, the professional world remains fraught with challenges.
CIPD Neuroinclusion at work report 2024
The reality of neurodiversity means that every interaction at work takes place between people with different brains – yet, typically, very few organisations are thinking about neurodiversity or neuroinclusion. This represents a significant missed opportunity for organisations looking to address their key talent priorities at the same time as addressing inequalities at work faced by neurodivergent people
Meet Your Hosts and Expert
Speakers
Lucy Smith
Lucy is the founder of Inclusive Change and Inclusive Change at Work CIC. She has lived experience of neurodiversity and has been working in the area of neurodiversity for 6 years. Lucy combines a career in change management in internationally renowned organisations with experience in education to create thoughtful and inspiring training and consultancy services.
Daniel Biddle
Daniel is a highly experienced accessibility consultant with extensive experience of disability. Daniel has particular expertise in acquired disability, including acquired neurodiversity. He established the National Disability Employment & Advisory Service in 2022 and focuses on supporting neurodivergent young people & adults into employment.
Kirsty Brown
Kirsty is a proactive, self-motivated individual with managerial experience in motivating teams and providing exemplary service. As a personal trainer and women's health coach, I use an empathetic approach to set and monitor achievable goals, adapting strategies to support clients through life's challenges. My expertise in menopause coaching includes workshops that empower women to confidently make lifestyle changes and navigate difficult times.
Vicky Henderson
Vicky is a multi-award-winning coach, mentor, speaker and trainer. She specialises in working with young people (11-24yrs) helping them grow in confidence, feel happy and generate hope and excitement for a better future.
In addition to working with young people, Vicky also works with parents, schools and employers, to ensure that all young people are afforded the support and help they need to thrive.
Andy Jackson
Andy is a Non-Executive Director of Inclusive Change at Work CIC, as well as an entrepreneurial and leadership coach and a dedicated advocate for neurodivergent individuals.
As a parent to a young adult navigating life with undiagnosed neurodivergence, Andy brings both professional expertise and personal insight to their work.
A skilled coach, facilitator, and trainer, Andy is passionate about enhancing organisational performance and supporting teams to thrive.
South Glos Parent Carers
South Glos Parent Carers (SGPC), the local parent carer forum that represents & supports parent carers of children and young people with Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in South Gloucestershire. Driven by a desire to make a difference for every SEND family in South Gloucestershire, SGPC attend meetings across the education, health and social care sectors to ensure service providers understand the challenges families face, so that positive changes can be made. SGPC also offer support to parent carers, via online and drop-in support sessions as well as workshops on a range of SEND topics. The SGPC team are all parent carers themselves, so they truly understand the SEND journey & challenges. From their personal experiences & those of their community, they have gained valuable insight, information and a wealth of SEND knowledge.
Discover Project Sandbox: Shaping a Safer Digital Future
Inclusive Change at Work CIC proudly presents
Project Sandbox, a ground-breaking initiative designed to champion digital safety and disability inclusion.
In collaboration with the Avon & Somerset Police & Crime Commissioner, we’re creating an engaging series of podcast and radio episodes that dive deep into building safer digital spaces for disabled and neurodivergent individuals.
We invite you to be part of this important conversation and join us in driving meaningful change.
Stay tuned, get involved, and let’s make the digital world a place for everyone.
We can offer you bespoke training packages that will unlock potential in your business and help you foster a more diverse and inclusive work environment
Important Dates in Our Calendar
June 2025
2nd - Understanding & Empowering ND in Sport - Glos. F.A
9th-10th - Festival of Sustainable Business - Bristol Beacon
12th - F'Up Exeter - The Bootlegger, Exeter
July 2025
22nd - F'Up Bristol - The Square Club, Clifton
Free Resources - Guides, Webinars & Courses
Free Course
How to Champion Neurodiversity in the Workplace
Free Course
Inclusive Fitness -
Taster
Free Webinar
Access to Work -
A Manager's Guide
Free E-Book
Inclusion Matters
Free Course
Simplify Your
Digital Life
Free Webinar
This Is Me -
Daniel Biddle
Free Webinar
Building the Future of Work - Careers for Young People
Free Webinar
Building the Future of Work - Recruitment & Retention
Check Out Our Latest Blog Posts
Future Voices: Youth, Music and Community with Shae Stew in Emersons Green
Future Voices: Youth, Music and Community with Shae Stew in Emersons Green
Youth Activities in Emersons Green: A Fresh Start
In this edition of the Future Voices series, we spoke to Shae Stew, the new Youth Liaison Officer for Emersons Green Town Council. Shae’s story shows how passion, creativity, and lived experience can help shape opportunities for young people in South Gloucestershire.
With a career rooted in music, DJing, and youth work, Shae is determined to bring new energy to the community. His plans include building a mobile youth club in Emersons Green, supporting neurodiverse young people, and making sure every voice is heard — from local teens to families connected to the military.
Watch a snippet of our Everything Emersons interview with Shae. The full interview is linked at the bottom of this blog post.
From DJ Decks to Youth Development
Shae’s career began more than 20 years ago when music opened the door to youth work.
“I was a bit of a naughty teenager, but DJing gave me focus,” Shae explains. “That experience turned into a career that’s now lasted 21 years.”
From managing large youth centres in Wiltshire to creating Bristol’s innovative Youth Club on Wheels, Shae has always been about meeting young people where they are.
Now, in Emersons Green, he plans to deliver the same creativity and energy by designing a new community club on wheels to reach young people across the town.
What Does a Youth Liaison Officer Do in Emersons Green?
Shae’s role is about much more than running clubs - it’s about community development and engagement.
Every week is different. Some days are spent planning the mobile youth provision for South Gloucestershire, while others are focused on connecting with young people directly in parks, schools, and community spaces.
The vision is simple: activities designed with young people, not just for them. Whether that’s DJ workshops, football sessions, or a space to relax, Shae believes young people should take the lead.
Putting Young People’s Voices First
Youth work thrives when young people are in the driving seat.
“Adults can make decisions, but young people should decide what’s right for them,” Shae says.
Over the coming months, Shae hopes to:
Engage young people in Emersons Green directly — meeting them where they gather.
Offer youth-led activities based on their interests.
Use the Town Chamber to involve young people in decision-making.
For parents, this means future youth services in Emersons Green will be shaped by local young people’s ideas — not imposed from above.
Neurodiversity Support in South Gloucestershire
A key focus of Future Voices is neurodiversity, and Shae brings personal insight to this work.
“I’m very ADHD, and I see it as a superpower,” Shae shares.
His goal is to make Emersons Green a place where neurodiverse young people feel supported, connected, and celebrated. Plans include creating dedicated neurodiversity youth sessions, offering safe spaces for young people to share experiences and make friends.
For parents, this approach provides reassurance that youth services in Emersons Green will be inclusive and accessible, particularly for those who may struggle in mainstream settings.
Supporting Military Families in Emersons Green
With many military families living in Emersons Green, there are unique challenges for young people who often relocate every few years.
Shae recognises the importance of helping families integrate quickly:
“It’s not always easy for military families to connect, and that affects both parents and young people. We need more groups and activities to help people link up straight away.”
By using social media, community outreach, and coordinated local services, Shae aims to ensure military families feel welcome and supported in South Gloucestershire.
Music as a Tool for Youth Engagement
For Shae, music is more than a hobby — it’s a tool for connection, regulation, and community.
From playing in youth clubs at 13 to DJing in Ibiza and now performing at weddings, music has been his lifeline.
“Music regulates me,” he explains. “It can bring out deep emotions or lift me up. And DJing gives me the chance to bring joy to other people too.”
Shae hopes to bring music workshops and DJ sessions to Emersons Green, offering young people creative ways to express themselves while learning new skills.
Advice for Young People Who Want to Make a Difference
Shae believes every young person has the power to create change in their community. His advice is practical and encouraging:
Find a youth worker or mentor who will support you.
Look locally for clubs, volunteering, and community opportunities.
Start small — helping neighbours or joining a project can make a big difference.
Embrace failure — setbacks are part of learning and growing.
“Choices are always there,” Shae says. “If you want to follow something, just go for it. Keep going forward.”
Why This Matters for Parents and the Community
For parents in Emersons Green, Shae’s role means:
More youth activities tailored to young people.
Inclusive support for neurodiverse children.
Better connections for military families in South Gloucestershire.
Stronger community engagement where young voices are heard.
The message is clear: youth services in Emersons Green are evolving to be more inclusive, creative, and youth-led.
How to Get Involved
If you’re a parent or young person in Emersons Green, South Gloucestershire, there are lots of ways to connect:
Watch for updates on the mobile youth club.
Take part in community consultations and share your ideas.
Join activities like DJ workshops, sports sessions, and youth-led projects.
Reach out to Emersons Green Town Council to find out more.
Future Voices is a youth-led interview and blog series from Everything Emersons, supported by Emersons Green Town Council. We celebrate the voices, stories, and experiences of young people in South Gloucestershire.
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