Neurodivergence is an umbrella term that recognises that the natural variation in how people think, learn and experience the world can lead them to have different strengths and challenges to people who are neurotypical. Autism, ADHD, dyslexia and other cognitive differences all fall under the neurodivergence umbrella. While neurodivergence brings a huge amount of strengths, many neurodivergent people face systemic barriers in education, employment, healthcare and housing. Research shows a disproportionate representation of neurodivergent people within homeless populations. Difficulties with communication, navigating complex systems, and coping with overwhelming or unpredictable environments can all increase vulnerability to housing instability. At the same time, mainstream homelessness services are not always designed with neurodivergent needs in mind, which can compound exclusion and make it harder for individuals to access and sustain support.
In this new episode of the Going Beyond Podcast, we speak to Amelia Draper, Evaluation and Learning Lead for Changing Futures Nottingham. We discuss how being neurodivergent can shape the lived experience of homelessness itself, and share insights about what homelessness services can do differently to better support neurodivergent people, focusing on three key areas of need: communication, sensory considerations and executive functioning. Together, we reflect on practical changes services can make to become more accessible, responsive and inclusive.
Listen to the episode below, or on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. And make sure you check out the full back catalogue of Going Beyond podcasts.
