Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Explain what neurodiversity is and why it matters in care settings
- Describe how neurodivergence may manifest in behaviour, communication, and sensory processing
- Identify key features of Autism, ADHD, and OCD
- Recognise strengths as well as challenges associated with neurodivergent conditions
- Adapt care approaches to better support neurodivergent individuals
- Reflect on their own attitudes, assumptions, and practice
Course Programme
1. Introduction and Setting the Scene
- Why neurodiversity is relevant in caring roles
- Reflective activity: “What do we already think we know?”
2. What Is Neurodiversity?
- Definition of neurodiversity and neurodivergence
- The neurodiversity paradigm vs. the medical/deficit model
- Neurotypical vs. neurodivergent ways of thinking and processing
- Common myths and misconceptions
- Strengths-based perspectives in care
3. How Neurodiversity Manifests in Daily Life
- Differences in:
- Communication (verbal and non-verbal)
- Social interaction
- Sensory processing (sound, light, touch, smell)
- Executive functioning (planning, organisation, time management)
- Emotional regulation
- Masking and camouflaging
- Impact of stress, change, and environments
- Behaviour as communication
4. Autism (Autism Spectrum Condition)
- What autism is (and what it is not)
- The spectrum and individual variation
- Common characteristics:
- Social communication differences
- Sensory sensitivities
- Need for routine and predictability
- Special interests and strengths
- How autism may present in children vs adults
- Reasonable adjustments in care settings
5. ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
- Understanding ADHD beyond “inattention and hyperactivity”
- Key features:
- Inattention
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsivity
- Emotional intensity
- ADHD in adults and carers’ common misunderstandings
- Strengths associated with ADHD (creativity, energy, problem-solving)
- Practical support strategies
6. OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder)
- What OCD is and how it differs from everyday anxiety
- Obsessions vs compulsions
- Common themes (contamination, checking, harm, symmetry)
- The anxiety cycle in OCD
- How reassurance and accommodation can unintentionally maintain OCD
- Supporting someone with OCD compassionately and safely
7. Supporting Neurodivergent People in Practice
- Person-centred and trauma-informed approaches
- Communication adjustments
- Environmental adaptations
- Supporting regulation and reducing overwhelm
- Working with families, professionals, and care plans
- Knowing your role and when to escalate concerns