The Happy Cactus

If you're reading this, chances are you're already part of the neurodiversity movement, championing inclusion, accessibility, and equal opportunities for all.

For those supporting neurodivergent individuals in education or the workplace, staying informed is essential. But with the movement constantly evolving, how do you keep up with the latest developments?

The environment matters

First, let's look at what neurodiversity means.

Introduced in 1997 by Australian sociologist Judy Singer, the term neurodiversity recognises that neurological differences – such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and dyscalculia – are natural variations of the human brain, not deficits to be fixed. Neurodiversity promotes a broader view of human potential, acknowledging that diverse perspectives and problem-solving approaches lead to valuable contributions across all areas of life.

I recently heard a beautiful explanation of neurodiversity from Kate Dean, a Neurodiversity Consultant at Adjust, who compared it to biodiversity.

Just as natural ecosystems thrive through the unique roles of plants and animals, communities thrive when people contribute a range of ways of thinking, learning, and overcoming obstacles.

Kate used the example of a cactus in the desert. A cactus flourishes here because it's ideally suited to that environment. But place that same cactus in a dark, damp forest, and it will struggle – not because there's anything wrong with it but because the environment doesn't support its natural abilities. In the same way, neurodivergent people do best in spaces that understand and accommodate their cognitive styles.

When society forces them into systems not designed for their needs, the problem lies with the environment, not the individuals.

Collective growth

Since the 1990s, neurodiversity has gained increasing recognition in psychology, education, and employment, sparking important conversations about creating more equitable workplaces and schools. This momentum has led to workplace accommodations, inclusive education policies, and government initiatives to better support neurodivergent individuals.

However, significant barriers remain.

A Government review found that neurodivergent students continue to face disproportionately high rates of school exclusion, often linked to factors like rigid learning environments, limited access to assistive technology, and a lack of personalised support.

A recent survey also found that parents frequently encounter difficulties in accessing the resources necessary to navigate diagnoses and advocate for their neurodivergent children, while many educators report feeling underprepared to effectively support neurodivergent learners.

Likewise, in the workplace, a 2024 study found that neurodivergent individuals often face challenges in recruitment and securing reasonable adjustments, with ongoing barriers to career progression.

While progress has been made, it's clear that continued awareness and action are essential to create a more equal environment.

Explore an evolving ecosystem

What’s needed is a dedicated space where the latest innovations, expert insights, and practical strategies in neurodiversity come together – and in 2025, we’re lucky to have three. The National Neurodiversity Shows will take place in Cardiff, Liverpool and the Midlands, bringing together changemakers, thought leaders, and specialists across sectors. These events offer powerful opportunities to connect, learn, and help shape a more inclusive future.

Whether you're a parent supporting your neurodivergent child, an educator seeking new tools to help students or an employer working toward a more accessible workplace, these shows have something for you.

Or maybe you're neurodivergent yourself and want to connect with others and find new ways to maximise your potential.

Whatever your reason, these events offers the perfect chance to network, participate in demonstrations and workshops, hear from expert speakers, and discover innovative solutions for supporting neurodivergent individuals.

Cultivating change

Booost Education will be at every show, empowering neurodivergent learners to take control with our digital tools, Booost and Luna.

Come and say hello, try the apps for yourself and find out how we can help you or the students you support to simplify revision and unblock productivity.

Neurodiversity isn't a problem to be solved but a fundamental part of our shared human experience. We all have a responsibility to understand, support and celebrate the diverse minds that shape our world.