University launch landmark partnership deal with training firm to champion neurodivergent talent

The University of Birmingham has launched a landmark partnership with National Neurodiversity Training to empower more than 300 managers with the skills, confidence, and insight to support neurodivergent colleagues.

Around one in five people are neurodivergent, including those with dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD and autism.

This flagship collaboration positions Birmingham as a sector leader in developing best‑practice approaches to supporting neurodivergent colleagues, ensuring that managers have the tools and understanding to recognise individual strengths and foster supportive working environments.

Monique Myers, director of employee equality, inclusion and wellbeing, said: “Our university’s strength lies in the diversity of talent that shapes our research, teaching and professional services.

“Supporting neuroinclusive practice is fundamental to unlocking that talent. Through this partnership, we are equipping our managers with the knowledge and confidence to lead in ways that foster innovation, wellbeing and excellence.”

Iveta Pudilova, founder and CEO of National Neurodiversity Training, said: “As a Birmingham alumna and someone who is autistic, I’m incredibly excited that National Neurodiversity Training is partnering on this programme with the University.

“We often see managers who want to support their teams but are scared of saying the wrong thing, or may not understand how neurodiversity relates to team success.

“On average, we improve manager confidence by 94 per cent – we're excited to achieve even better results at the University of Birmingham during this pilot.”

Following the launch, participating managers will engage in a blend of live webinars and self‑paced learning through to summer 2026.

All content has been co-designed by the University, including the Neurodiversity Staff Network, and National Neurodiversity Training to ensure the programme is Birmingham-specific, impactful, and aligned with the University’s ambitions for meaningful behavioural change.

This initiative supports the University’s 2025–2030 Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Strategy and 2030 Strategic Framework, reinforcing commitments to inclusive working practices, diverse talent development, and embedding accessibility across the institution.

Pictured from left to right: Iveta Pudilova, Nick Vaughan-Williams, provost and vice principal at the University of Birmingham, and Alex Johl, EDI project manager