Education, employment and volunteering offers numerous benefits for neurodivergent individuals, each contributing to personal growth, social inclusion, and overall well-being.
Education
Education systems that cater to diverse learning styles help neurodivergent students thrive both academically and socially and make the learning environment more inclusive for everyone.
Recognising and valuing the strengths of neurodivergent students can significantly boost their self-esteem and confidence. When students feel seen, valued, and supported, they are more likely to believe in their ability to succeed.
Inclusive education promotes empathy and understanding among all students, fostering a supportive community. This approach helps students develop a deeper understanding of their peers' unique differences and strengths, leading to increased positive relationships and a more inclusive environment.
Most people with ADHD or autism can claim Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) to cover extra study costs. These are grants, so they don't need to be paid back.
For more information, visit:
Local resources
Medway Adult Education offers courses to help adults gain new skills.
Kent Adult Education provides various courses for personal and professional development.
MidKent College offers Access to Higher Education courses for adults.
National resources
Neurodiversity Hub supports neurodivergent students in becoming work-ready.
Support for Neurodiverse Apprentices
Apprenticeships offer hands-on learning and can be great for neurodiverse individuals. For support, visit:
Finding Apprenticeships
Kent Training and Apprenticeships offers supported internships, helping people to get into employment by providing additional support to develop the skills, experience and qualifications you will need to succeed. This additional support is available if you have a Statement of Special Educational Needs, a Learning Difficulty Assessment or an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
Medway Adult Education offers learners with learning difficulties and disabilities a supported learning programme, providing a range of creative and practical subjects.
If you have complex special educational needs (SEN) and an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), specialist colleges and training providers may be able to help. These are available if you are 16 or over 19 years old.
Employment
Neurodivergent people bring many benefits to the workplace including:
- Creativity and innovation: Neurodivergent individuals often bring unique perspectives and problem-solving skills to the workplace, fostering creativity and innovation.
- Diversity of thought: A neurodiverse workforce enhances diversity of thought, leading to more comprehensive and effective solutions.
- Loyalty and retention: Neurodivergent employees tend to have high retention rates, contributing to a stable and committed workforce.
Disability Employment Advisors are available at Job Centre Plus to help with job searches and applying for Access to Work support.
The Disability Employment Advisor can also guide you to applying for Access to Work support which can help you get or stay in work if you have a physical or mental health condition or disability.
The Work and Health Programme helps autistic adults and those with ADHD or a learning disability find and keep jobs.
CXK supports adults to build the skills, knowledge and confidence to find work.
The King’s Trust offers free support to develop the skills and confidence you need to find a job or start a business.
Many autistic people prefer self-employment.
If you want to consider working for yourself, you can find information on setting up and running a business, selling goods or services, and growing your business.
If you are self-employed, find information on self-employment forms and guidance which includes explanations on how to register and pay taxes.
Find guidance and an overview of the Equality Act 2010 and legal protections.
Harper Macleod - Employers' Obligations Under the Equality Act 2010 outlines employer obligations to avoid discrimination and make reasonable adjustments.
EW Group - Equality Act 2010: A Guide for Employers and Employees explains rights and responsibilities under the Equality Act.
Acas - Adjustments for Neurodiversity explains what reasonable adjustments are and how to request them.
AGCAS - Reasonable Adjustments for Neurodiversity provides examples of adjustments for various neurodivergent conditions.
DavidsonMorris - Reasonable Adjustments is an employers’ guide that covers legal obligations and how to request adjustments. It also sets out best practice for job applicants and existing employees.
Diversifying.io - How to Ask for Reasonable Adjustments provides practical tips on requesting adjustments.
Lily’s Social Kitchen CIC provides employment and employment training to people with neurodiversity with or without cognitive challenges and people with learning disabilities.
Bemix offers supported internships, supporting young adults with learning difficulties and/or autism in a mutually beneficial internship.
Volunteering
There are many benefits of volunteering including:
- Skill Development: Volunteering provides opportunities to develop new skills and gain valuable experience.
- Social Connections: It helps build social connections and a sense of community, reducing feelings of isolation.
- Positive Impact: Volunteering allows neurodivergent individuals to make a positive impact, enhancing their sense of purpose and fulfilment.
Kent Volunteers has a searchable database of volunteering opportunities.
Medway Voluntary Action provides a list of the current volunteering opportunities available in Medway.
Volunteer Centre Medway has been helping volunteers find positions and local organisations find volunteers since 1969.
If you receive benefits, you should inform the authorities before starting voluntary work.
You can volunteer and claim benefits if:
- the only money you get from volunteering is to cover expenses, like travel costs
- you continue to meet the conditions of the benefit you get
Find advice on volunteering and claiming benefits.
Find advice on pay and expenses when volunteering.