Neurodiversity and disability working group
Overview
Our mission is to champion a neuro-affirming and inclusive environment for both neurodivergent staff and students and those with disabilities. We work in close collaboration with the People & Culture Committee and the Head of Department to foster understanding, advocate for meaningful support, and cultivate a workplace where every individual feels valued, empowered, and able to thrive.
The Working Group provides practical guidance, resources, and advocacy to make the Department of Psychiatry a more inclusive place for everyone. We promote accessibility in the workplace, raise awareness about neurodiversity, and work closely with University services to ensure equitable access to opportunities and support.
Members
Andreia Costa (Chair)
Initiatives
The Neurodiversity & Disability Working Group leads initiatives that promote awareness, accessibility, and inclusion across the Department of Psychiatry.
Recent and ongoing initiatives include:
- Understanding Neurodivergence & Disability Survey — inviting staff and students to share their experiences to inform departmental change and improve inclusivity.
- Find Your Strengths Workshop — a practical session held in May 2025 focused on helping staff and students identify and build on their individual strengths within a neuro-affirming framework.
- Oxford Health BRC Neurodiversity Conference — supporting and participating in this major event celebrating neurodiversity research, lived experience, and inclusive practice across the National Institute for Health and Care Research Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre and partner institutions.
Together, these initiatives aim to create meaningful cultural and structural changes, embedding neurodiversity and disability inclusion into all areas of departmental life.
Reasonable adjustments at Oxford
The Department supports the University’s approach to reasonable adjustments, which ensures that all staff and students can work and study effectively without disadvantage. This includes adjustments to work arrangements, access to assistive technology, and creating accessible physical and digital environments. The University encourages open dialogue through the Workplace Adjustment Plan, a collaborative tool to record and review individual needs.
Resources
University guidance on reasonable adjustments
University information on neurodivergence and how to support neurodivergent staff
How to get involved
We welcome new members, perspectives, and ideas. For further information and if you would like to contribute to projects, join the mailing list, or attend meetings please contact Andreia Costa.