Disability and neurodiversity equity: next steps at LJMU

Embedding equity, diversity, and inclusion practices. 

In recognition of Disability History Month (14 November to 20 December) and the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on 3 December, we’re reflecting on our progress over the past 24 months to support staff and students with a disability/ who are neurodiverse and outlining our next steps to advance disability equity. 

Fostering inclusivity in work and study is at the heart of our mission, creating an environment where everyone feels they belong. 

Key initiatives advancing disability equality 

Over the past two years a number of initiatives have been introduced to support and empower neurodivergent individuals, disabled staff, managers and students: 

• We’ve worked with the ADHD foundation and Lexxic to deliver over 18 workshops focusing on neurodiversity, practical workplace adjustments, and building neuroinclusive teams. 

• Practical resources including the Thinking About Neurodiversity and Neuroinclusion guide and the Workplace Reasonable Adjustment Passport (WRAP) have been created. 

• Deaf awareness and sign language sessions have been made available to staff and the Calibre Leadership programme has been developed. 

• We installed over 80 colourful umbrellas in our Student Life Building as an uplifting visual representation of all the different minds we have here at LJMU and celebrating our neurodiversity. 

• Six Diversity and Inclusion projects focusing on supporting individuals with special educational needs or disabilities have been funded over the past two years. 

So what’s next when it comes to disability equity? 

Your voice matters and we need your support to help us shape the future of diversity and inclusion at our university. 

To ensure our priorities reflect the needs of our university community, we’re hosting a Diversity and Inclusion Strategy Day on 15 January 2024, at Exchange Station. This is your chance to shape our 2025–2029 Diversity and Inclusion Priorities and Action Plan. Book your spot now and make your voice heard. 

Training and resources this Disability History Month 

Discover more about Disability History Month 2024 and this year’s theme of “Disability Livelihood and Employment” by visiting the official Disability History Month website. 

You can view current training workshops, session and resources regarding disability and neurodiversity on our Diversity and Inclusion webpages.  

For more information about LJMU’s Diversity and Inclusion activities, please email the Equality team at equality@ljmu.ac.uk 

Our Student Advice and Wellbeing team has dedicated support for students with a disability or who are neurodiverse. Find out more on our student support pages.