The RCPCH Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) team, alongside a working group of paediatric clinicians and College staff with lived and/or clinical experience, co-produced this guidance. The five documents provide practical information to support those on their training journey and the key people who will influence and support trainee paediatricians.
Neurodiversity is used to describe all the different thinking styles or variations between human minds. Neurodivergent conditions occur naturally within this and represent a different way of processing information.
It is estimated that one in seven people are neurodivergent. These individuals can possess strengths that are particularly useful in the paediatric setting, but they may also face challenges or barriers that neurotypical individuals do not. These challenges are often a result of the environment and systems they are placed in.
Our guidance highlights how to support neurodivergent individuals and how to leverage their strengths to create a neuro-inclusive and equitable environment.
- Good practice guide to embracing neurodiversity and supporting neurodivergent paediatricians
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This guide will provide an understanding of neurodiversity, how to support neurodivergent doctors and the strengths the neurodivergent workforce brings to paediatrics.
View the guide below or view and download here.
- Good practice and lived experience case studies
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This document provides lived experience examples from some of our members, highlighting challenges they have faced and support they have received.
View the guide below or view and download here.
- Managing supportive conversations - a check list
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This check list is provided for supervisors to assist in managing supportive conversations around disclosure and adjustments.
View the guide below or view and download here.
- Examples of workplace adjustments and accommodations
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This document provides examples of adjustments that can be made, from different communication styles to provision of support networks.
View the guide below or view and download here.
- Additional resources
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This document provides links to external resources that provide further support and useful information.
View the guide below or view and download here.
We want to acknowledge and thank all those who have contributed their time and commitment to develop these resources, for being open and honest about the challenges they have faced and providing the lived experience examples that will be crucial in helping others understand the working lives of neurodivergent paediatricians.