PETTY Pool, a leading specialist college for young people with learning disabilities and difficulties, has taken another bold step towards building a neuroinclusive future with the successful delivery of its second annual Neuroinclusion Summit, following last year’s award-winning inaugural event.
Held on 3rd July at Chester Racecourse, the summit brought together employers, leaders, and HR professionals, along with neurodivergent young people to explore practical solutions for improving pathways into employment for those with learning disabilities and neurodivergence. The day featured keynote speakers including Alex Partridge, founder of LADBible and UniLAD, and host of the ADHD Chatter Podcast, panel discussions led by lived experience voices and employers already modelling inclusion at work, and sessions offering practical advice on inclusive recruitment, sensory-friendly workplaces, and other easy-to-implement adaptations.
A highlight of the day was the contributions from Petty Pool catering and hospitality learners, who demonstrated their employability skills, serving lunch and refreshments, alongside the Horseradish Team.
Sally Garratt, CEO of Petty Pool, said:
“Following the success of last year’s award-winning event, it has been incredible to see our Neuroinclusion Summit grow in ambition and impact. The barriers faced by neurodivergent young people are significant, but we are seeing that with collaboration and commitment, meaningful change is possible. We are determined to keep pushing for a neuroinclusive future where every young person can thrive.”
Wendy Bowyer, Deputy CEO of Petty Pool, added:
“This summit was about action, not just awareness. Our learners led the way in showing what true inclusion looks like, and I’m confident that the delegates who attended will have been inspired to create action in their own organisations.”
Nadia McKane, Head of Marketing and Fundraising at Petty Pool, said:
“Seeing so many employers, leaders, and professionals come together for this second summit shows there is a collective appetite for change. We are ready to support organisations who want to take practical steps to make neuroinclusive employment a reality.”
Building on the momentum of the summit, Petty Pool announced the launch of their corporate partnerships, and professional training offering. These programmes will arm businesses and organisations with practical tools, coaching, and workshops as they embark on the process to become a disability confident employer, and provide specific training around supporting neurodivergent employees.
In the North West, just 4.8% of people with a learning disability are in employment – even lower than the national average. Petty Pool’s message stressed how this isn’t good enough, and urged delegates to make a change. The charity is campaigning to create better transitions from education into meaningful employment for young people with learning disabilities and difficulties across the region.
For more information on the outcomes of the summit and how to benefit from support either as a neurodivergent individual, or as an organisation seeking to become more inclusive, please contact Nadia McKane at nadia.mckane@pettypool.org.uk.
