CPD opportunities for people who are neurodiverse

Supporting neurodivergent colleagues with CPD.

Continuing professional development (CPD)

How to support neurodivergent colleagues

These resources are for:

workforce development colleagues
supervisors
managers
social workers interested in how to best support neurodivergent colleagues

Estimates suggest around 15-20% of the population is neurodiverse. Neurodiversity includes conditions like dyslexia, autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and others.

Some of your workforce will be neurodivergent, so understanding neurodiversity and knowing how to structure learning to support neurodivergent colleagues will support their learning and development.

Using a tailored CPD approach at work will help to:

accommodate neurodivergent employees’ learning styles
enhance job performance with specialised skills
build confidence in navigating workplace dynamics
promote inclusivity
meet professional development needs and ensure they thrive in a supportive environment

CPD strategies for social workers who are neurodivergent include:

using flexible learning formats
offering CPD activities in various formats like written materials, videos, podcasts, or interactive online modules to accommodate different learning preferences
providing options for self-paced learning or extended time frames to complete CPD requirements

Use clear instructions with CPD activities

Ensure instructions and communication regarding CPD activities are clear, concise, and easily understandable. It may help to include visual aids, bullet points, or summaries to enhance comprehension.

Develop materials and activities that are accessible, including options for screen readers, captioning, and alternative formats for individuals with sensory sensitivities.

Provide accessible venues and technologies for in-person workshops or training sessions.

Personalised support and sensory needs

Offer personalised support through mentoring, coaching, or peer assistance to help practitioners navigate CPD requirements and enhance learning outcomes.

Encourage regular check-ins to adjust CPD plans as needed. Consider sensory-friendly environments for CPD events, including options for quiet spaces, dimmed lighting, or noise-cancelling headphones.

Allow breaks and adjust seating arrangements to accommodate sensory sensitivities.

Recognition of diverse perspectives

Incorporate diverse views and experiences into CPD content to ensure inclusivity and enrich learning opportunities. Encourage neurodivergent social workers to share their insights and contribute to discussions.

Gather feedback from neurodiverse practitioners on their CPD experience. You could use evaluations to continuously adapt CPD offerings to better meet the needs of neurodivergent learners.

Empower neurodivergent practitioners to advocate for their CPD needs and preferences, including accommodations or modifications that support their learning style.

References

Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). (2024). Neuroinclusion at work.

Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS). (n.d). Neurodiversity at work.

Next page: Peer-led learning and support

The resources have been developed by Research in Practice in collaboration with DfE.
Published: 27 February 2025
Last updated: 27 February 2025