Imperial is committed to supporting both staff and students who may identify as being or diagnosed with having a Neurological Difference, also known as Specific Learning Differences (SpLD).  These can include Dyslexia, Dyspraxia/Developmental Co-ordination Disorder (DCD), ADHD, Dyscalculia, being on the Autism spectrum, and others. 

Language is constantly changing. Imperial's Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Centre recognises that the term 'SPLD' is still widely used. However, we have chosen to adopt Neurodiversity & Neurodivergent terminology to help promote and recognise all variations of Neurodivergence.

What is Dyslexia & Neurodivergence

What are Dyslexia and Neurodiversity?

It is important to note that whilst we have listed some of the common traits here, each person’s challenges and strengths will be unique to them. This is why we recognise the need for tailored, person-centered support.

Neurodivergent is a range/variety of commonly co-occurring ‘conditions’ related to processing or cognitive differences including Dyslexia, Autism, ADHD, and more. Individuals may prefer to be referred to as neurodiverse. 

Dyslexia can be used as an umbrella term for other neurodivergent conditions but usually relates to those who have difficulty with phonological awareness, verbal memory, rapid serial naming, and verbal processing speed. Dyslexia is best thought of as a continuum rather than a distinct category, there are no clear cut-off points. Co-occurring difficulties may be seen in aspects of language, motor coordination, mental calculation, concentration, and personal organisation, but these are not by themselves markers of dyslexia.

Dyscalculia is a part of the neurodivergent family with a particular focus on processing differences related to arithmetic and the use of numbers.

Dyspraxia is now increasingly referred to as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). A part of the neurodivergent family with a particular focus on processing differences related to coordination. 

Autistic Spectrum is a range of conditions that typically relate to differences with social interaction, communication, and how they relate to the world around them.

Support for students and staff

Support for staff

Through the EDI Centre's booking form, you can request:

  • An initial screening to assess if you may have a neurodivergent condition
  • A Work Needs Assessment (WNA) to suggest workplace adjustments that could help you
  • Coping strategy coaching to help you manage your day-to-day work

Guidance on the staff support process

If you have any questions about the support process at Imperial, we have put together some information about initial screenings and Work Needs Assessments (WNAs) to explain what happens and what you need to do.

Information on the process

Information for managers

Managers, or those with supervision responsibilities, can find additional guidance on how they can best support staff with a suspected or shared Neurodivergent difference.

Information for managers

Support for students

Students at Imperial are supported through the Disability Advisory Service (DAS).

You can book an appointment to have an online screening (video call) and then a diagnostic assessment.

Student support

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Resources

If you have questions about Neurodiversity and Neurodivergence, then we have further internal and external resources, such as the British Dyslexia Association style guide for producing more accessible content.

Explore our resources

External Support