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Neurodiversity and Museums: Training for Inclusive Teams

Did you know that around 25% of people working in the heritage and cultural sector are neurodivergent, significantly more than the average in the general workforce? As a result, the importance of neurodiversity in museums is growing. Specifically the role of neurodiversity training for museums in creating neuroinclusive workplaces. .

Neurodiversity Training for Museums is essential. Many neurodivergent people find that roles in the cultural sector are so well-aligned with their skills profiles. For instance deep focus, attention to detail, curiosity, and a passion for storytelling.

It’s encouraging to see strong neurodivergent representation in the sector. However, true inclusion goes beyond presence, it’s about creating environments where everyone can thrive.

Neurodiversity Training for Museums: Spotlight on Science Museum Group 🎉

For example, we delivered a comprehensive programme of 18 “Neurodiversity Understood” training sessions for the Science Museum Group. Colleagues across all six sites took part, reaching everyone from frontline teams to senior leadership.

Our Neurodiversity Understood sessions give every attendee a better understanding of neurodiversity and practical strategies to support colleagues and visitors, and confidence to enact small yet impactful changes.

“We wanted all our colleagues to understand Neurodiversity and think about how to become neuro-inclusive. It’s been inspiring to see the impact of the training — staff have embraced new perspectives and are actively thinking about how to apply inclusive practices in their roles.

Klaudia Mitura
Learning & Development Manager, Science Museum Group

Neuroinclusion in Museums

We are proud to have delivered Neurodiversity Training to Managers, HR and Colleagues in many of the UKs top museums. For example The British Museum, The Natural History Museum, The National Army Museum, The Horniman Museum, The Science Museum Group and many more.

“A fantastic lunch and learn for our staff at the Natural History Museum. The session was extremely thought provoking and challenged the way we look at Neurodiversity in society. As well as how we can do better as an organisation and as people.

Beth Wright
Learning & Development Adviser, Natural History Museum

Museums have the opportunity to lead the way. The cultural sector has a high proportion of Neurodivergent employees and volunteers. When we create a neuro-inclusive work environment, employees will shine – binging incredible creativity, dedication, and fresh perspectives.

Inclusion Isn’t Just About Visitors

It’s fantastic to offer low‑sensory spaces or sensory‑friendly sessions—but true neuroinclusion requires systemic support.

In short that means training managers and HR teams. Only if there is an increase in awareness can you build inclusive procedures for recruitment, performance management. More importantly you can start to create an inclusive workplace culture.

Without this, even well-designed visitor experiences fall short. Staff or volunteers might feel unsupported, overlooked, or excluded—undermining wellbeing, retention, and the organisation’s reputation.

Let’s Create Places Where Every Mind Feels Welcome

Neurodivergent people are already integral to museums—as visitors, colleagues, volunteers, and creators. But inclusion doesn’t happen by accident. It requires deliberate design—in practice, culture, leadership, and space.

Basically we want cultural organisations to become places where every mind is celebrated, supported, and allowed to thrive.

by Eleanor Martin