Neurodiversity Celebration Week (March 17th-23rd, 2025) is a global initiative dedicated to challenging stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. It aims to create a world where neurodivergent individuals are understood, accepted, and empowered. At Neurodiversity UK, we are proud to mark this occasion by partnering with BuildForce, a social enterprise that helps veterans transition into careers in the construction industry. As part of this collaboration, Jack Norwood, Founder of Neurodiversity UK, and Pollymarch Mather, Senior Consultant, joined Charlotte Baker, Health and Wellbeing Advisor at Barhale, for an in-depth conversation on neurodiversity in the workplace, hosted by Angela Forbes MBE, Chief Executive of BuildForce. The discussion explored the experiences of neurodivergent individuals in the military and construction sectors, highlighting both the challenges they face and the strengths they bring to these industries
A Conversation on Neurodiversity
The interview examined the importance of fostering supportive environments for neurodivergent individuals at work. Jack Norwood explained:
“Neurodiversity is the first positive term that means ‘difference’ rather than ‘disability.’ It helps us focus on strengths, not just challenges.”
He emphasized how common it is for individuals to have more than one neurodevelopmental condition, such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and sensory processing disorder. In industries like construction, where structured environments can play to neurodivergent strengths, awareness and proper support are key.
“For me, finding out that I was neurodivergent changed my entire outlook on life. Instead of thinking something was ‘wrong’ with me, I realised that I just experience the world differently.”
Neurodiversity Celebration Week serves as a vital opportunity to educate people on the benefits of neurodivergent thinking. Many of the world’s most innovative minds—scientists, artists, engineers, and entrepreneurs—are neurodivergent. However, despite their strengths, outdated stereotypes and a lack of understanding continue to create barriers in education, employment, and social acceptance.“Too often, neurodivergent individuals are expected to fit into a system that wasn’t designed for them. But when we create environments that embrace difference, everyone benefits.” — Jack Norwood
ek serves as a vital opportunity to educate people on the benefits of neurodivergent thinking. Many of the world’s most innovative minds—scientists, artists, engineers, and entrepreneurs—are neurodivergent. However, despite their strengths, outdated stereotypes and a lack of understanding continue to create barriers in education, employment, and social acceptance.“Too often, neurodivergent individuals are expected to fit into a system that wasn’t designed for them. But when we create environments that embrace difference, everyone benefits.” — Jack Norwood
Watch the Interview
To find out more, watch the full conversation with BuildForce.
Events for Neurodiversity Celebration Week
This year, Neurodiversity Celebration Week offers a diverse schedule of online events, covering topics relevant to neurodivergent individuals, their families, and professionals across industries. Events include discussions on neurodiversity in the workplace, education, and healthcare, as well as panels on mental health, late diagnosis, intersectionality, and self-advocacy.
Highlights from this year’s schedule include:
- Understanding Co-Occurring Conditions – Exploring how neurodivergence often intersects with anxiety, depression, and sensory sensitivities.
- Neurodiversity and the Workplace – Panels and Q&As on creating neuro-inclusive environments, reducing burnout, and leveraging neurodivergent strengths at work.
- Neurodiversity in Education – Webinars on fostering accessible schools and universities where neurodivergent students can thrive.
- Mental Health and Neurodiversity – Discussions on the link between neurodivergence and mental health, acquired neurodivergence, and strategies for well-being.
- Neurodivergence & Identity – Events exploring neurodivergence across communities, including LGBTQIA+ perspectives, cultural experiences, and gender differences in diagnosis.
- Supporting Neurodivergent Children and Families – Sessions for parents and carers, focusing on advocacy, transitions, and inclusive home environments.
All events are free and online, making them accessible to anyone interested in learning more about neurodiversity. To view the full schedule and register, visit the Neurodiversity Celebration Week website.
About Neurodiversity UK
Neurodiversity UK is a social enterprise committed to supporting neurodivergent individuals through coaching, training, and peer support groups. We work with individuals, businesses, and organisations to create more inclusive spaces where neurodiverse minds can thrive.
