![Myth Busting](/img/450x/students/slideshow-images/NCW%20Myth%20Video_rdax_850x478.png)
Myth Busting
Members of our neurodivergent community at UoA have come together to share common myths associated with neurodiversity, and what the facts really are.
“Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. It aims to transform how neurodivergent individuals are perceived and supported by providing schools, universities, and organisations with the opportunity to recognise the many talents and advantages of being neurodivergent, while creating more inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate differences and empower every individual.”
As well as Academic Skills Advisers who specialise in academic writing, general study skills and maths, the Student Learning Service (SLS) has a Specialist Academic Skills Adviser for neurodivergent students. 1:1 appointments can be made with Karen Mitchell via Academic Skills - Student Learning Service | Students | The University of Aberdeen (abdn.ac.uk) and choosing the SpLDs option.
The Disabled Students’ Forum is one of five autonomous liberation campaigns affiliated under the Aberdeen University Students’ Association. Weare here to represent all students who self-identify as disabled in Aberdeen and to advocate for your needs in class as well as at social events.
We have many active campaigns working to make changes to university policy such as the Adaptive Accommodation Campaign to increase awareness of available options for students and allow disabled students to have more agency when it comes to choosing their residence while at uni. We work with support staff and lecturers to provide training in the best practices for including disabled students in their classes. We are always looking for new members to assist with these campaigns.
We place great importance on nurturing an open and fun community and have a members discord server for sharing art, photos and stories with fellow students as well as hosting regular informal tea events and discussions for you to meet like-minded individuals.
The Staff Disability Network Group provides feedback on Equality Impact Assessments and discusses issues related to disability.
The University is fully committed to equality for all of its staff and students. The University has a Disabled Staff Network Group, open to both disabled staff and those with an interest in disability issues. The group aims to provide support for disabled staff and those with an interest in disability in the workplace, to share information and consider good practice, and to provide recommendations to enhance University policy where appropriate.
The Disabled Staff Network Group meets regularly with meetings advertised via StaffNet and our internal Disabled Staff Network Group mailing list. Meetings are generally held online at lunchtime.
If you would like to be added to the mailing list, in complete confidence, please contact co-chairs Mark Paterson via SDNG@abdn.ac.uk
The University of Aberdeen has a Neurodivergent Equality Policy that aims to support and empower staff and students.
Student Advice & Support provides information and practical study-related support to prospective and current students who have sensory and physical impairments, mental health conditions, long-term health conditions, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)/Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), Dyslexia and other specific learning differences (SpLD), students who have a stammer, and students who have an Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC). We are available to assist undergraduate, postgraduate, full time, part time and online distance learners.
Whatever stage you are at with your career planning, from first year to final year and beyond, the Careers and Employability Service is available to inspire and support your career choices. They are happy to advise you with all aspects of your career planning, from offering feedback on your CV to discussing how to secure a job in your preferred career sector.