SOSE supports Neurodiversity Celebration Week
We have shown our support for a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences.
As well as sharing neurodiversity information and events throughout the week, colleagues had the opportunity to share their unique stories and experiences with others – helping them understand more about what it means to be neurodivergent.
How are you supporting neurodivergent people in the South?
Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs Network (NEN)
We supported the launch of a six-month pilot of a Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs Network (NEN).
The pilot, which began in September 2024, aims to engage with the neurodivergent community in the South of Scotland, supporting entrepreneurial activities through peer-to-peer coaching and delivering a podcast series called We Speak Tangent that highlights relatable role models.
The aim of NEN is to create a vibrant network of neurodivergent entrepreneurs, empowering them to embrace their unique strengths.
Amelia Pettman, Producer of We Speak Tangent podcast, said:
"The Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs Network (NEN) was set up to create a safe and supportive space for neurodivergent entrepreneurs in the South of Scotland.
“We have started this conversation, with the help of SOSE, in setting up the Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs Network and the We Speak Tangent podcast.
“Through interviewing members of the neurodivergent community on the podcast, we have learnt that there is still a way to go in getting neurodivergent voices heard and supported.”
Neurodiversity Employers Award
In December 2024, we were awarded a Neurodiversity Employers Index Silver Award.
The Neurodiversity Employers Index (the NDEI®) is a gold-standard evidence-based framework that recognises organisations that have made noteworthy progress in neuro-inclusion, implementing effective initiatives and policies.
The Silver award recognises that SOSE has made significant progress in neuro-inclusion, implementing effective initiatives and policies.
Jane Morrison-Ross, Chief Executive of SOSE, said:
“We are proud to support Neurodiversity Celebration Week and hearing from neurodivergent colleagues who have shared their stories and unique perspectives with us.
"We are always looking at new ways to understand how best to support our colleagues and we recognise that organisations benefit from diversity – better problem solving, increased creativity and innovation, increased financial performance – and simply, are just better places to work
“Receiving our Neurodiversity Employers Silver Award reflects the hard work and dedication of all our colleagues, led by our Fair Work and Equalities Lead, to create an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.
“We are proud to provide support to help establish the Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs Network in the South of Scotland, to support and empower neurodivergent entrepreneurs.
“The pilot is doing fantastic work building an inclusive environment where neurodivergent entrepreneurs can unlock their ideas and economic potential.”