The majority of neurodivergent people are undiagnosed.

Screening for neurodiversity means listening to your client to help identify their specific and individual needs. If they have a diagnosis, it might be helpful for you read this. If they do not have a diagnosis, they may be assisted by completing the All About Me document.

FLANC have created The ‘All About Me Document’ which is a collaborative tool that can be used by family law professionals working with a neurodivergent individual to better understand their needs and how best to work with them. Where neurodivergence is suspected but undiagnosed the key step is developing an understanding the person’s profile, strengths and needs.

Barriers to participation will be unique to the individual’s needs and profile. It may be that both clients are facing different barriers. Clients may or may not be clear about their own neurodiversity. Care and patience is needed to identify how both clients will participate.

The All about me Document can be used as part of your client intake process or MIAM where it is a confidential document between the mediator and participant under cover of MIAMs confidentiality. When screening for domestic abuse in a MAIM, bear in mind that the two issues could be connected.

What can be done in NCDR about a client’s specific needs and barriers to participation?

Adjustments to overcome barriers to participation in NCDR can be tailored to the individual needs of the participant clients and any children. Although there are adjustments which can be generally helpful, like taking regular breaks, a one-size fits all approach should be avoided as it can lead to necessary adjustments being overlooked and unnecessary or unhelpful adjustments being put in place.

Whilst the majority of adjustments will be straightforward and simple to action and many will already be familiar to family law professionals. However, sometimes creative thinking will be needed.

The Barriers to Participation Tool sets out some common barriers and possible adjustments for you to consider. These are only suggestions and not exhaustive.