The Neurodiversity Umbrella Project: A splash of colour to raise awareness in the workplace

What better way to mark Neurodiversity Celebration Week than with a diverse array of colourful umbrellas?

That’s how Southampton law firm Womble Bond Dickinson chose to honour the event last month, installing the vibrant new additions across its UK offices.

The idea was to highlight neurodiversity as an ‘umbrella’ term for a number of neurological differences, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and dyscalculia.

It came as a collaboration between the ADHD Foundation and WBD’s Disability Network, chaired by Legal Director Michelle Essen. With more than 80 members, the Network promotes accessibility and drives inclusive policy development at the firm.

Michelle said: “Around one in five people is neurodivergent and yet there are still many misconceptions and a lack of understanding about what being neurodiverse means.

“Marking Neurodiversity Celebration Week with our eye-catching umbrella project is about acknowledging that not all disability is visible, openly supporting and embracing those who think differently, and recognising the many talents and strengths of people who are neurodiverse.”

Paul Stewart in WBD’s Newcastle office. Credit: Womble Bond Dickinson

The Disability Network is itself under an umbrella of diversity and inclusion groups at the firm, alongside WBD Pride, REACH (Race, Ethnicity, and Cultural Heritage), and Thrive, which promotes women’s career development.

Recent initiatives have included the adoption of #CamelCase, a system which makes hashtags easier to read for those with dyslexia and vision impairments.

And for UK Managing Partner Paul Stewart, these movements are woven into the fabric of WBD: “Diversity and inclusion is a cornerstone of our business and values.

“Womble Bond Dickinson has an inclusive and progressive culture that nurtures equality, fairness and respect for all.

“Underpinned by our ongoing #beyourself campaign, our people feel empowered to bring their full selves to work in a firm that embraces difference and individuality.”