What is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity is a term that describes the natural differences in how people think, learn, and process information.
It recognises that there’s no single “right” way for our brains to work — instead, human brains are as varied as our personalities.

The word itself comes from neuro (relating to the brain) and diversity (differences).

It was first used in the 1990s to challenge the idea that conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or dyspraxia are simply “disorders” to be fixed. Instead, neurodiversity sees these as part of the normal spectrum of human thinking and experience.

Neurodiversity in Action

Neurodiversity includes a wide range of brain differences. These may be:

• Neurodivergent conditions such as:

  • Autism

  • ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

  • Dyslexia

  • Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)

  • Dyscalculia

  • Tourette’s Syndrome

  • Sensory Processing Differences

• And other differences such as Auditory Processing Disorder, Nonverbal Learning Disorder, and Slow Processing Speed.

It’s important to remember:

• Some people identify as neurodivergent, some do not.

• Many people have more than one neurodivergent difference (this is called co-occurrence).

• These differences often bring unique strengths as well as challenges.

Why It Matters

Understanding neurodiversity helps us:

• Appreciate a wide variety of talents, perspectives, and problem-solving approaches.

• Move away from a “deficit” view and towards recognising value in different ways of thinking.

• Create environments — at work, in education, and in our communities — that are inclusive and accessible.

When we embrace neurodiversity, we’re not just supporting individuals; we’re making the most of the full range of human potential.

A Balanced View

Neurodiversity doesn’t ignore the fact that people can face real challenges. For some, these differences can make day-to-day life harder without the right support. The aim isn’t to minimise those difficulties, but to ensure people get the understanding, adjustments, and respect they need to thrive.

In short: Neurodiversity is about recognising that brains work in many different ways, and that difference is something to value — not fix.