Webinar recording: Neurodiversity in research

The session, held on Wednesday 25 June 2025, featured presentations and discussions, including:

• Neurodiversity in research – Julian Harrison, EDI Consultant, outlined barriers and practical steps towards more inclusive research.
• A positive lived experience – Gez Williams, Postdoctoral Research Associate, shared perspectives on how tailored adjustments can improve participation.
• Inclusion and adaptations in the EXPAND project – Charlotte Hall, Principle Research Fellow, and Sarah Cooper, Research Assistant, demonstrated how neurodivergent contributors shaped research through specific changes.

A facilitated discussion, chaired by Barbara Czyznikowska, brought together attendees to share experiences and practical approaches for embedding inclusion in research practice.

To watch the full recording here, click below:

Attendee feedback reflected the value of the webinar in both practical and reflective terms:

• "I’ve gained insight into different methods I could use to support neurodivergent individuals in my PPI group — particularly in activity design and general admin details."
• "It refreshed my knowledge on the importance of inclusion in research — not just regarding ethnicity but also neurodiversity, which can be easily missed."
• "The practical suggestions for activities accessible to all were invaluable, and I welcome the sense that adjustments make it better for everyone."
• "This has given me the impetus to consider accessibility measures in more detail for research participants."

This event supports ARC East Midlands’ national leadership role in equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) for underrepresented groups in research.

To access the full EDI seminar series, which offers further in‑depth discussions and practical insights on embedding inclusive practices in research, click here.