In this powerful episode of Let’s Talk Disability, host Professor Jackie Carter, Academic EDI Lead for Disability, is joined by Janine Dixon, Senior Lecturer in Fashion Technology and neurodivergent inclusion advocate, and Helen Brewis, Head of Colleague Wellbeing at the University of Manchester.

Together, they explore what it truly means to design inclusively—from classrooms to workplaces—and how universal design benefits everyone, not just those with visible or shared disabilities.

Janine shares her journey leading a three-year project on widening participation for neurodivergent students, developing academic training workshops, and advocating for “universal design for collaboration.” Helen reflects on the importance of psychological safety, flexible environments, and the role of leadership in fostering wellbeing.

This episode is a deep dive into:
- The lived experience of neurodivergent staff and students
- The power of inclusive teaching and assessment design
- Creating safe spaces for disclosure and support
- The ripple effect of staff networks and community-led change
- Moving from dialogue to action—what real commitment looks like

Whether you're an educator, student, manager, or ally, this conversation will challenge assumptions, inspire action, and offer practical insights into building a more inclusive university culture.

Dixon, J. (2025) ‘Widening Participation for Neurodivergent Students ITL Fellowship 2022-24 Project Report’. The University of Manchester. doi: 10.5281/zenodo.15529531.

https://zenodo.org/records/15529531

This podcast episode features a discussion on disability inclusion at the University of Manchester, hosted by Professor Jackie Carter with guests Dr. Jessica Boland and Professor Richard Jones. The conversation focuses on the importance of recognizing hidden disabilities and fostering an inclusive environment in academia.

Dr Jessica Boland, a senior lecturer in the Department of Materials, discusses her work with functional materials and her experience as a hard-of-hearing individual. She emphasizes that her disability does not define her and believes the focus should be on societal change rather than personal limitations.

Professor Richard Jones, Vice President for Regional Innovation and Civic Engagement, shares his background in materials physics and innovation policy. He expresses his commitment to supporting disabled staff and students and contributing to societal change through the university's outreach efforts.

Professor Jackie Carter is joined by Hannah Rundle, Director of Faculty Operations and Will Stone, Communications Manager, both in the Faculty of Humanities.

The conversation focusses on hidden or non visible disabilities and long term health conditions and the support that the University can give to people living with these around being able to take sick leave, inclusive policies and training managers.