Think SPACE!
- Sensory: Use initial contact to gather information about sensory needs.
- Communication: Gather information about communication preferences.
- Predictability: Ask about any barriers that might prevent the client attending an appointment and identify adjustments accordingly.
- Acceptance and Empathy: This is an opportunity to demonstrate awareness and understanding that people are different.
KEY ISSUES
Neurodivergent individuals experience a range of barriers when accessing services, particularly for the first time. Barriers can include anxiety about unfamiliar settings and people, what is expected of them when they get there, and communication differences of which neurotypical people may be unaware and often misinterpret. These challenges can be exacerbated by sensory sensitivities.
PRACTICAL TIPS
What practitioners can do or ask
- Do not expect the first meeting to be face-to-face – some Neurodivergent people may need to build up confidence over the telephone, via an initial online meeting or through another preferred form of communication.
- Some Neurodivergent individuals may experience delayed processing, presenting as a barrier for telephone contact: ask the client what their preferences around communication are (e.g., telephone calls, message, email, etc).
- Where telephone contact is necessary, offer to follow this up with a written summary/reminder (e.g., of what was discussed, appointment reminders).
- Send a picture of the venue in advance, and a map of the building.
- If safe to do so, have photos and names of staff on organisation websites and/or reception wall.
- Send a list or overview of questions that will be covered in advance of their first meeting (if safe to do so).
- Ask whether there are any preferences regarding how information is explained or received (written, visual) and whether any support will be required to complete forms.
- Ask about any preferences that the client has that will reduce barriers to attending appointments (appointment reminders, meeting and greeting arrangements, travel).
- Consider appointment time preferences (morning or evening) to fit in with differences in functioning and fatigue (this will be relevant when considering group and one-to-one intervention times too).
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
- Check what other services/support is involved.
- Is there an advocate or neurodivergence coach?
- Get the client’s consent to work together.