An international conference in Edinburgh, ITAKOM, taking place next month, will shine a spotlight on neurodiversity in the workplace. Also taking centre stage at the global event is Edinburgh-born writer and satirist Rory Bremner describing how his ADHD diagnosis shaped his life and work.
Tickets are still available for the ITAKOM – It Takes All Kinds Of Minds – event on the science and reality of neurodiversity, featuring more than 50 speakers from around the world including experts on neurodiversity in the workplace, neuroscientists, clinicians and comedians.
Held on March 13 and 14, and with SSE Plc. confirmed as headline sponsors, the conference aims to foster a better understanding of all neurodevelopmental conditions and help to create more inclusive schools, workplaces and communities.
HR professionals, practitioners, academics, the care sector and families will all offer insights into how to better understand people’s differences and provide effective support where needed.
A focus on the working environment will be high on the agenda and HR specialists will learn how to cultivate and support a neurodiverse workforce.
The conference is organised by Edinburgh charity Salvesen Mindroom Centre whose Chief Executive Officer Alan Thornburrow says the diversity of thought needs to become a key business priority, just as issues like gender equality and mental health have become integrated over the last decade.
And with 15-20% of the population estimated to be neurodivergent, it has never been more important for managers and HR professionals to address their role in how to help create a neuro-affirmative environment.
“The workplace is one of the most important places to support neurodiversity and make a tangible difference in the lives of staff facing challenges. Businesses that demonstrate a real commitment to addressing neurodiverse needs have the power to make a hugely positive impact in the world of work. We’re also delighted to be sponsored by SSE Plc. one of the world’s leading clean energy businesses which is currently recruiting 1,000 additional people a year. Their support will help us towards our target of reaching 1 million workers by 2026 and supporting them with practical tools and advice to effect change in the workplace.”
Rosie MacRae, Head of Inclusion & Diversity at SSE Plc. commented, “We are delighted to be supporting this important conference. We’re currently recruiting 1,000 people a year as we help deliver the transition to a net zero energy system and offering an inclusive workplace that embraces and welcomes diversity for the creativity and innovation it brings is crucial to meeting our objectives and delivering wider benefits to society.”
For more information on ITAKOM and to register for the conference go to https://itakom.org/register/attending/.
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