Neurodiversity Week 2024
In celebration of Neurodiversity Week, we are pleased to share a series of blogs highlighting some of the issues faced by neurodivergent individuals. In doing so, we also hope to shine a spotlight on the specialist advice, support and representation which we offer to our neurodivergent clients.
A word on terminology
The meaning of neurodiversity and its associated terms are frequently misunderstood.
Neurodiversity – is a broad umbrella term used to describe the full range of neurocognitive functioning that can be experienced by an individual. Therefore, neurotypicality is also included within the spectrum of conditions described by the term neurodiversity.
Neurodivergent – is a term used to describe an individual who functions in a way which is atypical to the rest of a larger group.
Neurodevelopmental – is a term used to describe conditions which affect the way that an individual’s brain functions. There is no defined set of neurodevelopmental conditions and different people will view what should be classified as a neurodevelopmental condition differently and therefore, who can be described as neurodivergent differently.
Beware of labels!
I appreciate the irony that having just defined a series of different terms, I now caution you to be mindful of labels. However, I have a new appreciation regarding the dichotomy of labels following a talk from Daniel Aherne of Adjust, recently organised by our Enable group to raise awareness of neurodiversity within our firm.
Daniel neatly articulated how labels can be both self-affirming for an individual as well as potentially unhelpful and even damaging to how that individual is viewed. For example, Autism, which is almost universally classified as a neurodevelopmental condition, has itself become a categorisation for a wider variety of terms, such as Asperger Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Condition or Disorder, Atypical Autism or Pervasive Developmental Disorder.
Throughout our blog series, we have been unable to dive into all the intricacies of each developmental condition, and have instead relied on more general terms or examples. We recognise that this may mean that nuance surrounding certain aspects of a condition may not be fully explored. We have however tried hard to ensure that we articulate at least a range of the most common issues facing neurodivergent individuals. We do not underestimate the importance of experienced and individualised representation.
The overlap between neurodiversity and mental health
There is extensive evidence that neurodivergent individuals are more likely to suffer from co-occurring mental health issues and as such, we have considered it relevant to touch on this area within our series.
Promoting difference through our work
Kingsley Napley is committed to embracing and promoting difference. A common thread, running through all our practice areas, is our commitment to be there ‘when it matters most’, for each client. This ethos informs how we work with clients to understand their specific needs, so that we can provide support in a way that best meets them, where they are. Through this new blog series, we aim to illustrate some of the issues faced by our neurodivergent clients and showcase the assistance that we are able to provide to support them.
Neurodiversity Week blog series
Employment blog
How employers can close the autism employment gap
Why are autistic people underemployed and what can employers do about it?
Read more here Criminal Litigation Blog
Punishing difference:
Why are neurodivergent children disproportionately punished by our education and youth justice systems?
Read more here Criminal Litigation Blog
Communicating difference:
Effective representation at the police station is critical especially if the child being questioned is neurodivergent.
Read more here Court of Protection Blog
What is capacity and how is it assessed?
The Mental Capacity Act 2005 (“MCA”) defines how capacity is to be assessed and is designed to promote autonomy and protect people who lack mental capacity.
Read more here 
We welcome views and opinions about the issues raised in this blog. Should you require specific advice in relation to personal circumstances, please use the form on the contact page.
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