Disclosure and Advocacy

Disclosure can be hard

Placement providers and colleagues may lack awareness and understanding of neurodiversity, which can lead to misconceptions, stereotypes, and inadequate support for neurodivergent students whilst on placement.

Fear of judgment or negative consequences may prevent neurodivergent students from seeking the accommodations and support they need to succeed on placement.

Everyone’s responsibility

Under the Equality Act 2010, it is the responsibility of both the placement provider and the university to proactively support neurodivergent students — whether or not they have an official diagnosis.

Be proactive

Ask all students, prior to starting placement, whether they have any support needs you can help with. Don’t rely on students to advocate for themselves. Neurodivergent students may struggle with self-advocacy for a range of reasons.

Some neurodivergent students may have experienced stigma or discrimination when disclosing their neurodivergence in previous settings. Others may have had their experiences undermined or belittled. Some may not even be aware that they are entitled to support.