Neurodiversity Celebration Week is here
This week is Neurodiversity Celebration Week, an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the diversity of how people think, learn and experience the world.
Across Derbyshire, our communities are strengthened by people with a wide range of perspectives, skills and lived experiences. Neurodiversity reminds us that there is no single “right” way to think or communicate. Instead, it encourages us to value the creativity, insight and innovation that comes from different ways of seeing the world.
Through the work of Derbyshire Voluntary Action (DVA), we see every day how the voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector creates spaces where people can be themselves, find support and contribute their strengths to their communities.
A sector built on inclusion
Many of DVA’s member organisations provide support that helps people who are neurodivergent feel understood, valued and connected. From peer support groups and community activities to creative projects and wellbeing initiatives, local organisations are helping to build environments where differences are recognised as strengths.
These spaces matter. They allow people to share experiences, learn from each other and develop the confidence to participate fully in community life.
Learning from each other
One of the greatest strengths of the VCFSE sector is its ability to bring people together. By working collaboratively and listening to lived experience, organisations across Derbyshire are finding new ways to make services more inclusive and accessible.
Whether through community activities, training sessions, youth projects or creative programmes, our members are helping to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to contribute their voice and talents.
Understanding what Neurodiversity means
Derbyshire Adult Community Education Service have some fantastic resources this week with 2 free online learning sessions designed to increase the understanding and awareness of neurodiversity taught by neurodivergent and ADHD tutors.
Neurodiversity: No two brains are the same
Cost: Free
Date: Tuesday 17 March 2026
Time: 12.30pm
Course link: DACES T25OC2490 Neurodiversity: no two brains are the same
Understanding ADHD
Cost: Free
Date: Friday 20 March 2026
Time: 9.30am
Course link: DACES T25OC2491 Understanding ADHD
Take this opportunity to better understand what neurodiversity means for you, your friends, your community.
Celebrating diversity in our communities
Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a reminder that communities thrive when everyone is welcomed and valued. By recognising the different ways people think and experience the world, we can build stronger, more compassionate communities where everyone feels they belong.
At DVA, we are proud to work alongside organisations across Derbyshire that champion inclusion, celebrate difference and create opportunities for people to connect.
Together, we can continue building communities where diversity is recognised as a strength and collaboration leads to positive change.