Neurodiversity recognises and values the wide range of differences in human brain function and behavioural traits, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and other cognitive variations. In diabetes care, understanding neurodiversity is vital to providing truly person-centred support. Neurodivergent individuals may experience unique challenges in managing diabetes, from processing complex health information to navigating appointment structures, sensory sensitivities, or medication routines.

Healthcare professionals play a key role in adapting communication, offering flexible care plans, and ensuring that services are inclusive and accessible. Awareness of neurodiversity not only improves patient experience but can also lead to better self-management outcomes and reduced health inequalities.

The Royal College of Nursing has developed a dedicated resource to help nurses and other healthcare professionals enhance their knowledge, adapt practice, and support neurodivergent people living with diabetes. This resource offers practical tips, real-world scenarios, and evidence-based guidance (available for RCN members only)

• Recognise the key neurodivergent conditions (e.g., autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia) and describe how these can influence diabetes self-management and healthcare engagement.
• Apply person-centred approaches by adapting communication, care planning, and clinical environments to meet the needs of neurodivergent individuals living with diabetes.
• Utilise the RCN Neurodiversity in Diabetes resource to implement evidence-based strategies that improve accessibility, patient experience, and health outcomes.