In this conversation, Mel Francis, a HR professional specializing in neurodiversity, shares her personal journey as a single parent of a child with neurodiverse needs. The discussion covers the challenges of balancing work and advocacy, the gendered responsibilities of parenting, the impact of single parenthood, and the difficulties faced in accessing support and understanding for neurodiverse children within the education system. The conversation covers a range of topics related to neurodiversity, education, support, and transition into the workplace. It explores the challenges and successes of parenting a neurodivergent child, the impact of diagnosis, the role of schools in providing support, and the complexities of transitioning into the workforce. The discussion also delves into societal perceptions, the need for cultural intelligence, and the importance of creating neuro-inclusive environments.

Keywords

neurodiversity, parenting, single parenthood, work-life balance, gender roles, advocacy, education system, neurodiverse children, support, challenges, neurodiversity, education, support, transition, neurodivergent, diagnosis, school, workplace, societal perceptions, cultural intelligence, neuro-inclusive environmentsTakeaways

• The challenges of balancing work and advocacy as a single parent of a neurodiverse child.
• The gendered responsibilities of parenting and the impact of single parenthood on work-life balance.
• The difficulties faced in accessing support and understanding for neurodiverse children within the education system. The impact of diagnosis on a neurodivergent child's education and support needs.
• The role of schools in providing support and understanding neurodivergent students.
• The complexities of transitioning into the workforce for neurodivergent individuals.
• The need for cultural intelligence and neuro-inclusive environments in society and organisations.