It's Neurodiversity Celebration Week, a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. It aims to transform how neurodivergent individuals are perceived and supported by providing schools, universities, and organisations with the opportunity to recognise the many talents and advantages of being neurodivergent, while creating more inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate differences and empower every individual. This week, we spotlight stories, videos and resources as we support NCW. Read on for Louise's story...
My name is Louise Sparry, and I currently work as an Administrator for the Thrive Into Work Neurodiversity Pathway with Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.
I joined the team in June 2022 after being sent the vacancy by a social prescriber at my GP Surgery who had seen the position being advertised and believed I would be a good fit. This role was in collaboration with Ambitious About Autism, and was for 3 month internship within the team for anyone with a formal diagnosis of autism. At this point in which I had applied for the vacancy, I had been out of work for a few years due to the Covid-19 pandemic as well as other factors, and saw it as a fantastic opportunity to learn and improve on my current administrative skills learnt in my previous apprenticeship roles in an environment supportive of my neurodiversity, to see if this was a role I would like to continue to work in further down the line.
It quickly became apparent that not only was the role an excellent fit for my skills and experience, but the trust and Thrive Into Work were the one of the most supportive employers I have ever worked for in relation to my own neurodiversity, and from seeing first hand the simply outstanding support that Thrive Into provide to the communities we serve, knew that a similar role was something I wished to pursue as my career long term.
One month into the placement, a job opportunity arose for an administrator within my team, which would potentially allow me to make the internship a more permanent position. Whilst I was initially hesitant to apply for the position due to not believing I had the relevant experience they were looking for, it was the words of encouragement from both my family, team lead and colleagues that persuaded me to apply for the position, and to my surprise was offered an interview for the role. After I was interviewed for the role by my team lead and the Thrive Into Work Operations Manager, to my sheer amazement I was offered the role along with training and development needed to fulfil this, and after a few happy tears were shed, accepted without hesitation.
I have now been working for the Neurodiversity Pathway for 18 months, in the same role that was only intended to be a 3 month position. Knowing that the individuals that access our service can have someone who truly empathises with the challenges they may face, as well as giving back to the service and team that have changed my life in an immeasurable way fills me with immense pride each and every day that I come into work, and would strongly encourage any neurodiverse individuals that are considering joining the team, or making a referral into Thrive Into Work to do so, as you never know where your journey could lead.
