Published on PCS website, 3 May 2017:
PCS recently held its second Neurodiversity In The Workplace course, with plans to hold the two-day course in every PCS region and nation this year.
The course, tutored by Janine Booth, teaches reps and members about how we can prevent discrimination in the workplace against workers who are autistic, dyslexic or otherwise neurodivergent (ie. have unusual brain wiring), and what we can do to fight for equality.
What is neurodiversity?
The human race is very neurodiverse, which is one of the things that make us such a wonderfully interesting species. In addition a lot of people, undoubtedly including colleagues, friends, children, family members, will have an identifiable neuroatypical condition, and this may sometimes require support. Conditions could include autism, Tourette’s, Asperger’s, dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD, OCD, etc.
What will the course teach me?
Janine Booth’s approach uses the social model, which says that while many people have impairments or differences, their disability is caused by society putting barriers in the way of their equal and independent participation in society.
The course focuses on identifying barriers and then removing them, looking at several case studies of workers who experienced discrimination.
Participants work together to create a list of changes that workplaces could make in order to be more accessible to workers who are neurodivergent, as well as adjustments that could be made for individuals.
You will learn what the law says about discrimination and how we can use it.
Impact of austerity
We are committed to campaigning as a union for a better world, one that embraces all of our neurodiversity. We know the current austerity agenda is leading to cuts in support where it’s needed. Opportunities need to be widened, and support strengthened.
Find out more
Check the events page for a course in your area or contact your regional office.