NCL launches new courses to tackle barriers facing autistic people

Hundreds came together at NCL’s Coatbridge Campus today for the college’s first Autism Symposium, held in partnership with Scottish Autism, to explore how Lanarkshire and Scotland can become more inclusive of autistic people.

The event also saw the launch of two new NCL courses designed to embed inclusion in workplaces and communities across Scotland:

• Understanding Neurodivergence in the Workplace
• Neuroinclusive: Designing Better Experiences for Different Brains.

Delegates received free access today, and both will open to the public in January. Hosted on NCL’s online platform, The Learning Well, they cover communication, wellbeing and burnout, and offer practical strategies for inclusive behaviours and leadership in a range of settings.

Professor Christopher Moore, Principal of NCL, said:

“Today’s symposium stems from community requests following two health events which launched our Better Than 52 campaign last year.

“Our aim today is to listen, learn and equip our communities with tools which will assist autistic people to have the positive life opportunities and outcomes which are their right. The courses we have unveiled aim to help every employer, educator and individual in Lanarkshire to enable autistic people to fulfil their potential.

“Better Than 52 has grown from an idea into a movement which refuses to accept our communities should live shorter, less healthy lives. Inclusion is part of that. When people can fully participate in education and work, their health and lives improve.”

Dorry McLaughlin, Chief Executive of Scottish Autism, said:

“Autistic people have so much to offer our workplaces, our communities and our country, but too often they face barriers that have nothing to do with their abilities. The language we use and the environments we create all make a real difference. Today’s symposium shows what can happen when autistic people, families and organisations work together for the benefit of all.”

Autistic people, families, practitioners, employers, educators and policymakers heard from speakers on education, health and wellbeing, criminal justice and employment, with discussions focused on practical change.

Carrie Findlay, Acting Head of Department for Access and Progression and Supported Learning, welcomed delegates. Professor Moore gave the opening remarks, and Dorry McLaughlin, Chief Executive of Scottish Autism, introduced the charity.