Neurodivergent people’s brain differences affect how their brains work, meaning they have different strengths and challenges from those whose brains don’t have those differences. Join Kirstie Pickles, University of Nottingham, at Congress 2024, 25th-27th January, Hilton Birmingham Metropole, where you will learn how to harness these strengths and minimise the challenges whilst exploring the opportunities that neurodivergent members of staff can bring to your practice.
A recent survey of autistic veterinary surgeons (Smits, 2022) revealed their mental wellbeing profile was considerably poorer than that observed in the national veterinary surgeon population, with 57% of respondents reporting probable depression and a further 17% possible depression. Job stressor exposure was higher among autistic veterinary surgeons than in previous surveys of the profession. Therefore it is likely that veterinary surgeons with other neurodivergent conditions experience similar workplace stressors and wellbeing.
This session will provide a discussion of strengths and challenges of common neurodivergent conditions. Kirstie will provide practical solutions to allow neurodivergent staff to thrive in practice using small group, case cased scenarios. You will explore a framework to enable you to discuss and provide/receive reasonable adjustments and you will come away having learnt how to recognise the consequences of the unmet needs of your neurodivergent staff.
At Congress, we’re aware that we need to consider the needs of our neurodivergent attendees. Click here for details on the adjustments we’ve made to ensure our event is accessible as possible for all attendees.
Joining Kirstie on Friday’s Team Dynamics stream we also have:
- Human Factors and the Veterinary Industry: A novel approach to the challenges of our profession – Thomas Cardy & Matt West, Trainetics
- Smarter Working through collaboration and delegation – Robyn Lowe, RVN and Paul Horwood, Veterinary Voices UK
- Systems Thinking: Joy in work and how to achieve it – Mark Moreton, CVS
- If Money isn’t a motivator, how should I measure my team? – Joe Hill
- Smarter Quality Improvement: Putting people at the heart of improvement in practice – Elly Russell, VDS Training
- Is your Management structure fit for purpose? – Paul Manktelow, Blue Cross
For full programme details click here.
