Resource content
Context:
SCRA is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all children, young people, and families engaging with the Children’s Hearings System. Recognising the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals, SCRA identified a need to improve services, communication, and participation for neurodiverse individuals, while also supporting colleagues and promoting inclusive practice.
Approach:
In 2020, SCRA established the Neurodiversity Champions Network — a staff-led group working collaboratively across Scotland to drive improvements for neurodiverse children, young people, families, and staff. The network operates with a non-hierarchical structure to encourage shared ownership and peer learning.
Implementation:
• Established a national network of 44 staff volunteers across all nine SCRA localities, serving as Neurodiversity Champions to support inclusive practice locally and nationally.
• Installed in-room sensory baskets, take-away sensory bags, and inclusive book gifting programmes in every Hearing Centre — designed, assembled, and installed by Champions.
• Delivered training in collaboration with partners including Salvesen Mindroom and NHS Speech and Language Therapists, with sessions held in Hamilton, Glasgow, Inverness, Glenrothes, and Stornoway.
• Marked World Autism Day and Neurodiversity Week with events, training, and speaker sessions, many led by neurodivergent individuals.
• Adopted a non-hierarchical group structure to foster shared ownership, peer learning, and resilience.
Impact:
• Neurodiverse children and families experience more inclusive and supportive environments in Hearings.
• Champions report increased confidence and knowledge in supporting neurodiverse individuals.
• Neurodiversity is increasingly recognised and valued across the organisation.
• Growing interest and participation across SCRA reflects the network’s sustained visibility and impact.
Key Learning:
• Co-designing with neurodivergent individuals ensures relevance and authenticity.
• Champions embedded in localities can tailor support to specific community needs.
• Dedicated time, resources, and leadership backing are essential to sustainability.
• Awareness events energise staff and reinforce inclusive values.