October 2025

Leading with Kindness: Inclusive Responses for an Inclusive World

In a world growing ever more complex, the call for leadership grounded in compassion and inclusion has never been more urgent. In “Leading with Kindness: Inclusive Responses for an Inclusive World,” In this article we explore a powerful vision of how kindness can serve as both principle and practice in transforming systems — whether in workplaces, education, governance, or everyday interactions. This piece invites us to shift from transactional models of support toward relational ones rooted in empathy, respect, and humility.

Gender Bias in Diagnosis

Gender bias in neurominority diagnoses has led to significant disparities in identification and support. Women and girls often present neurominority traits differently, leading to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis. Factors such as masking, societal expectations, and gendered diagnostic criteria contribute to this issue. This article explores the implications of gender bias in diagnoses and the importance of adopting inclusive and accurate assessment practices.

Many Paths, One North Star: Unity in the Neurodiversity Movement

By Professor Charlotte Valeur, Chair and Founder of the Institute of Neurodiversity

In “Many Paths, One North Star,” Professor Charlotte Valeur offers a compelling exploration of the neurodiversity movement’s rich diversity of voices, experiences, and approaches — all united by a shared vision of dignity, respect, and justice. She acknowledges that while there are many paths toward achieving inclusive societies, the core “North Star” remains constant: recognising neurominority people as whole, not defined by deficits, but by strengths, potential, and worth. Through her nuanced analysis, Valeur calls on us to bridge differences, build alliances, and navigate tension with humility, so that our collective efforts move us closer to a world where neurodiversity is not just accepted, but genuinely embraced.

A Brief History of Dyslexia: Before Dyslexia Had a Name

In “A Brief History of Dyslexia: Before Dyslexia Had a Name,” we explore the development of our understanding of reading difficulties, tracing their recognition back to the 19th century. The article highlights the early observations and terminology that paved the way for what we now know as dyslexia, and examines the key figures and moments that shaped this journey. By reflecting on this history, it emphasises the importance of recognising and addressing reading challenges, even before they were formally named.

Reframing the Spark: Why Embracing Neurodiversity Is a Social Imperative

By Susan Mackay, ION Member & Coach

In this article Susan Mackay challenges us to rethink how we view neurominority individuals and their contributions to society. The article argues that embracing neurodiversity is not merely a matter of equity but a strategic necessity for building inclusive and innovative communities. By highlighting the value of diverse cognitive perspectives, it calls for a shift towards a more inclusive society that recognises and nurtures the strengths of all individuals.

 New Episode of the ION Neurodisrupters Podcast: Amanda Graham Speaks to Robbie Curran

 In Episode 3, host Amanda Graham sits down with Robbie Curran – acclaimed theatre and TV actor, screenwriter, and the first autistic graduate of the Oxford School of Drama. Tune in for a fascinating discussion on creativity, and authenticity, 

Get Involved in the #EveryAgeEveryNeuroType Global Campaign

As part of our #EveryAgeEveryNeurotype campaign We’re inviting personal stories from older neurominority individuals for a special feature on Late-Life. If you’re an older neurominority or support someone who is, please share your experience to help raise awareness and understanding around ageing and neurodiversity. Click below to share your story.

 AAC Awareness Month 

October is the AAC Awareness Month. Alternative and Augmentative Communication refers to modes of communication that are alternative to verbal speech. Often viewed as a last resort in the absence of reliable verbal speech, AAC is anything but! The work of prominent AAC users like Jordyn Zimmerman, Hari Srinivasan, Elizabeth Bonker, Aditi Sowmyanarayan and more remind us of the power AAC holds to make a true impact. 

Neuroinclusion Is A Smarter Way To Build Innovative Teams

Published by Forbes

This article published by Forbes highlights the importance of embracing neurodiversity in the workplace, including contributions from ION Global member, Dr. Theresa Haskins. Discover how inclusive environments that accommodate diverse cognitive styles can foster innovation, enhance employee well-being, and strengthen organisational success.

UN News: World Leaders Champion Support for Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health

World leaders have shown strong support for a new UN political declaration tackling noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health. Endorsed at the September 2025 High-level Meeting, the declaration sets ambitious targets for 2030, from reducing tobacco use to expanding mental health care, while addressing broader health risks and conditions.

Join us for the Next ION Chat on the 7th November 2025

We look forward to seeing you at the next ION Chat on

Friday, 7 November 2025, 10:30am - 11:30am UK London Time

Discover a virtual space where you can talk about what matters to you, hear from others, share your experiences, and connect on a deeper level. Register now to join us and become an ION individual member.