New campaign shines light on neurodiversity misconceptions
For Neurodiversity Celebration Week 2025, we are aiming to debunk some of the most common myths about some neurological differences with the launch of our new campaign, 'Myths and Legends'.
💭 What is Neurodiversity? 💭
Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in human brains and minds, emphasising that differences in neurological functioning are not deficits or disorders but simply part of the diversity of human experience.
👀 Our campaign 'Myths and Legends' 👀
Our campaign for Neurodiversity Celebration Week, 'Myths and Legends' will be displayed in common rooms and receptions across our halls.
You'll find information about the popular misconceptions surrounding neurodiversity, including large interchangable cubes that will feature common myths and facts about neurodiversity.
🏡 How UAL supports neurodivergent students 🏡
In our accommodation buildings, we offer quiet times at the beginning of all external events for neurodivergent individuals to acclimatize to spaces and socialize in smaller groups.
How to access support at UAL 📲
Struggling with a Special Learning Difference (SpLD) can make studying at university difficult - it can create added stress and pressure to an already intense period of change.
One of the many advantages of studying at UAL is students' access to free testing and SpLD support.
You can listen to our 'Being Queer and Neurodivergent' Queer Peers Podcast episode by clicking here 🙌
🌟 Neurodiverse legends 🌟
UAL alumni and lead singer of Florence + The Machine, whose dyspraxia influences her unique, expressive movement and deeply poetic songwriting.
Climate activist who embraces her autism as her “superpower,” using her hyperfocus and direct communication to challenge world leaders.
Singer-songwriter known for his raw emotional music and humor, openly discussing his Tourette’s to break stigma and raise awareness.
Iconic singer and actress who struggled with numbers in school but overcame challenges to become a global superstar and advocate for learning differences.
Critically acclaimed musician whose obsessive thought patterns fuel her intricate lyrics and deeply personal songwriting style.
King of the jungle, Kiss FM radio DJ, podcaster and reality TV star (Made in Chelsea) Sam, was diagnosed on television when filming a documentary about his journey ‘Sam Thompson- Is this ADHD?’. He has since become an ambassador for ADHD UK.
Gymnast with numerous Olympic and World Championship medals, considered one of the greatest gymnasts of all time. She has openly discussed having ADHD, which she credits with helping her maintain focus and determination in her sport.
✨ Types of Neurodiversity ✨
Autism is a spectrum of conditions characterized by differences in social interaction, communication, and behavior. Individuals may have sensory sensitivities, repetitive behaviors, and unique learning patterns. The spectrum includes a wide range of abilities and challenges, from nonverbal individuals to those with advanced cognitive abilities.
ADHD is characterized by difficulties in attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. People with ADHD may struggle with focusing, organizing tasks, and maintaining attention in activities that are not stimulating enough, while also being prone to impulsive actions or decisions.
Dyslexia is a learning disability that affects reading and language processing. Individuals with dyslexia may have difficulty with spelling, reading fluency, decoding words, and understanding written text despite having average intelligence and adequate schooling.
Dyscalculia is a specific learning disability affecting mathematical abilities. Individuals may have difficulty understanding numbers, performing calculations, and grasping mathematical concepts, even with normal intelligence and educational support.
Dysgraphia involves difficulties with writing, including problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing thoughts on paper. People with dysgraphia may struggle with fine motor skills needed for writing or have trouble expressing ideas in written form.
Dyspraxia is a motor disorder that affects physical coordination and movement. Individuals may experience difficulties with tasks that require fine motor skills, such as writing or using utensils, and gross motor skills, like running or jumping.
Tourette Syndrome is characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements and vocalizations called tics. The tics can vary in frequency, type, and severity, and may change over time. TS can co-occur with other conditions, such as ADHD and OCD.
OCD involves intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that a person feels driven to perform to reduce anxiety. Though it’s often considered a mental health disorder, its neurological components can overlap with neurodiversity, particularly in terms of brain functioning.
