The Neurodiverse Workplaces in Europe Community of Practice is an initiative born from collaboration between six organizations—FORMA.Azione, Associazione Italiana Direzione Personale, European Dyslexia Association, Specialisterne Ireland, Catro, and Die Berater. This initiative operates within the framework of the NEW – Neurodiversity at Work project (nr. 2021-1-IT01-KA2204-VET-000033362), and its purpose is to promote neurodiversity in European workplaces.
Neurodiversity is critical in fostering inclusive environments where all employees can thrive. Many workplaces, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), lack awareness of how to support neurodivergent individuals, which results in missed opportunities for engagement and productivity. This Community of Practice seeks to change that by engaging a wide range of stakeholders—such as vocational education and training (VET) providers, trade unions, policymakers, and civil society organizations (CSOs)—to ensure comprehensive, non-fragmented efforts towards inclusivity.
Purpose of the Community of Practice
The Memorandum of Understanding establishes the Neurodiverse Workplaces in Europe Community of Practice, whose mission is to share, exchange, and promote innovative policies and practices that support neurodiversity in workplaces. By doing so, the Community aims to:
- Raise awareness of neurodiversity, particularly within SMEs and among relevant stakeholders.
- Implement inclusive practices that support neurodivergent employees in achieving their full potential.
- Share successful strategies and approaches that foster inclusion.
- Promote continuous learning and improvement in workplace inclusivity.
Commitment to Action
Members of the Community of Practice include HR managers, DEI professionals, consultants, VET trainers, and policymakers committed to creating workplaces open to neurodiversity. By joining, members agree to:
- Actively participate in discussions and activities.
- Share knowledge, experiences, and best practices.
- Implement inclusive practices in their organizations.
- Contribute to policy development that supports neurodivergent employees.
Benefits of Membership
Membership offers several benefits:
- Access to a network of professionals dedicated to promoting neurodiversity.
- Opportunities to participate in national and transnational events.
- Resources and support for implementing inclusive workplace practices.
- Enhanced capacity to access EU funding for neurodiversity-related projects.
Validity and Responsibilities
Each member will sign a Memorandum of Understanding. Each country has a national coordinator responsible for managing local activities and disseminating outputs. The Community will organize at least one transnational event per year and support linguistic diversity in communications.
This collaborative approach ensures neurodiversity is promoted consistently across Europe, making workplaces more inclusive for all.
Launch Event
A webinar to launch our Neurodiverse Workplaces in Europe Community of Practice will take place on October 29, 2024 at 12:00 CET. Register to attend at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/eda/1427239
Neurodiverse Workplaces in Europe Community of Practice – Documents
Memorandum of Understanding (ENGLISH)
Memorandum of Understanding (ITALIAN)
Memorandum of Understanding (GERMAN)
Memorandum of Understanding (BULGARIAN)
Community of Practice Branding Strategy (ENGLISH)
Community of Practice Branding Strategy (ITALIAN)
Disclaimer
