Neurodiversity training empowers inclusive Merseyside workplaces

Salvation Army to provide training to ensure neuroinclusive workplaces across Merseyside 

Bespoke training sessions will be available for businesses across Merseyside to ensure neuroinclusive workplaces. 

The Salvation Army, which works with neurodivergent young adults every day from its Strawberry Field site in Woolton, will run the bespoke training sessions allowing participants to explore how neurodivergence shows up in everyday workplaces and learn practical strategies to create inclusive environments where diverse thinking is recognised, valued and able to thrive. 

Taking place over a course of three and a half hours at either the business’ premises or Strawberry Field, the workshops will explore neurodivergent conditions, including autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and how environments, practices and attitudes can be adapted to create accessible and inclusive working cultures.

The Salvation Army’s Strawberry Field, on Beaconsfield Road, which was immortalised by The Beatles in the hit Strawberry Fields Forever, operates a training centre for young adults with learning difficulties, who are neurodivergent or have barriers to employment get into paid work through its Steps to Work programme, an eight week classroom based work readiness course, followed by up to three different work placements.

Through the training sessions the Steps to Work team will encourage businesses to recognise and support neurodivergences in the workplace and implement practical workplace adjustments. 

Adele Murphy, programme manager for Steps to Work at Strawberry Field said: “At the heart of this training launch is the core belief of our programme, neurodiversity is not a barrier, it’s a difference that can represent a wealth of untapped talent when supported in the right way.

“This launch of our new training package is our way of giving back and supporting employers and the wider teams across The Salvation Army to implement change. Together, we’re not just opening doors, we’re opening minds, unlocking new opportunities, and building stronger, more inclusive businesses for the future.”

For businesses wishing to host a workshop for their employees, contact can be made to the Steps to Work team by visiting www.strawberryfieldliverpool.com/neurodiversity-training.

For more information about Strawberry Field, and to donate to the work it does with vulnerable young adults with barriers to employment, please visit www.strawberryfieldliverpool.com.