Thinking Differently About Church: Understanding Autism and Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity training – Whole Day Session.

This training is a further opportunity for those who have attended the understanding neurodiversity introductory session to explore more deeply the range of neurodivergence and how this brings enriching gifts and potential into the life and ministry of the church.

If you haven’t attended the introductory session please do so before booking for this training.

The day is open to licenced and PTO clergy and lay ministers in London.

This one-day training will build on the introductory session, offering a modern understanding of neurodiversity and practical strategies for effective communication and collaboration in church communities.

Neurodiversity is the idea that there are natural variations in how people think, communicate, sense and understand the world. These differences include autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, Tourette's and more. As we seek to be church for all people, understanding neurodiversity is important to enable the gifts, talents and full potential of all people to be included and released within our mission and ministry.

The training will run from 10.30am to 4.00pm. Coffee etc will be available from 10.00am. After introductions we will briefly review the introductory session materials before exploring welcome & belonging, including co-production of services and events. The morning will end with a short session on worship, modelling a more neurodivergent-accessible worship style. After the lunch break we will discuss safeguarding aspects for neurodiversity and engage with some problem-solving materials. The final session will be on theology around neurodiversity and the day will end with Q&A.

There will be opportunities for questions, discussion, work in pairs and in small groups. The programme will include regular breaks. Each event will have a maximum of 30 participants. A quiet room will be available for any who need to take a bit of time out during the day. PA and hearing loop will be in operation. There is step free access and accessible toilets.

We are not able to provide lunch but drinks will be available throughout the day. Please provide your own lunch. There are sandwich shops and food outlets close to the venue.

This training event will be led by Ann Memmott and Fiona MacMillan, working in partnership with St Martin in the Fields.

There is step free access via a platform lift.

There are accessible toilets.

Please let us know if you need BSL interpretation or have any other access requirements.

Further access information will follow with attendance instructions.

For more information, contact John Beauchamp – john.beauchamp@london.anglican.org