Beyond Awareness — Living Neuroinclusion Every Day

Lauren Parry
4 days ago
2 min read

1. The Awareness Gap

There has been a real surge of interest in neurodiversity in recent years. Webinars, awareness days and glossy corporate campaigns are happening everywhere, and it is heartening to see. But there is a risk that awareness becomes a tick box rather than a transformation. Knowing the statistics is not enough if daily systems and communication still exclude people.

Inclusion is not a statement. It is a series of small human decisions made every day.

Awareness opens the doorPractice keeps it open.

2. The Scale of Neurodiversity

Up to forty per cent of people are thought to be neurodivergent. That is not a niche group. That is almost half of every workplace.

Neurodiversity includes ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia, Tourette’s and many more. It is a natural variation in how our brains are wired. Not a problem to fix, but a difference to understand and support.

When we recognise that diversity of thinking is a strength, we start designing workplaces that benefit everyone, not just those who need adjustments. What supports neurodivergent people often supports the whole team.

3. From Policy to Practice

One of the most powerful reflections from a recent disability awareness session was“Real inclusion is about turning awareness into daily practice, not just behaviour policies.”

Policies can set the toneLived practice creates the culture.

This is evident in daily moments, such as how meetings are run, how feedback is given, how flexibility is handled, and how communication is received.

Inclusion is not about changing people. It is about changing processes so everyone can thrive.

4. Co-Coaching: A Practical Tool for Ongoing Inclusion

Co-coaching is a simple yet powerful method that fosters open and equal dialogue. It is not mediation and it is not about solving a problem. It is about understanding each other’s perspectives with curiosity rather than judgment.

When colleagues learn to communicate this way, they create space for honesty without fear. Co-coaching helps teams move beyond awareness and into shared responsibility for inclusion. It slows the moment down and helps everyone understand what is really happening underneath the surface.

5. Everyday Examples of Neuroinclusion

Here are a few practical habits that make a real difference

Provide visual aids or written notes for meetings
Offer flexible start times or camera-off options
Use plain, direct language in communication
Schedule co-coaching check-ins for team reflection
Celebrate learning rather than perfection

When these habits become normal, inclusion stops feeling like an extra. It becomes how we do things here. Neuroinclusion is built in the micro moments, not the big gestures.