What I’ve learned this week

Physical environments can be designed to be neuroinclusive

As I’ve been busily recording all the podcast episodes for the next series, I sat down with Debra Presley of Diverse Nation to talk about environmental design.

Did you know that there are a tonne of things that can be done when building, renovating or decorating, that can make a space more comfortable for neurodivergent people?

• Sofas & Chairs – if they’re not against a wall, some autistic people will feel very anxious.
• Corridors – If they’re too straight & long, with no features to break up the lines, people with dyspraxia will struggle with visual processing.
• Electrical Wires – If they’re in the walls next to the pillows, the almost-silent buzz will keep ADHDers awake all night.

The list goes on, but it’s given me real pause for thought now I’m renovating my own house.

I bought a hanging chair, because we can’t afford to spend £££s on furniture yet, but I’ve found I’m a million times more productive now I have it.

Debra says this is perhaps because I can move, fidget and sit comfortably at my desk from a variety of positions, which actually allows me to focus better.

[written by Angela Kirwin]