Empowering Neurodiverse Communities and Enhancing Workforce Development
We seek funding support for our innovative project aimed at fostering inclusive workforce development and collaborative working within the museum sector and further afield. Our proposal focuses on empowering the neurodiverse community by providing a safe and supportive environment for learning new skills. We understand the unique challenges faced by individuals with neurological differences, and our goal is to create opportunities for them to excel in both front and back-of-house roles.
Project Objectives:
1. Neurodiverse Community Support: We are committed to offering a safe space for the neurodiverse community to learn, grow, and thrive. Our tailored programs will provide targeted support, enabling individuals to develop essential skills and boost their confidence.
2. STEM Hands-On Sessions: Through engaging STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) hands-on sessions, we will inspire participants to explore the fascinating world of technology. These interactive experiences will nurture a passion for STEM fields and encourage active participation.
3. Escape Experiences: We will design immersive escape experiences that challenge participants' problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and creativity. Working collaboratively with escapism learning. These experiences not only enhance cognitive skills but also foster collaboration and camaraderie among participants. We aim to offer paid opportunities to be part of our team in delivering these types of events with the educational offerings and corporate days.
4. Training and Skill Development: We will provide comprehensive training programs for all individuals, enhancing their expertise in customer service, Hands on STEM, educational programs, corporate team building events.By investing in the skills of our workforce, we aim to elevate the overall collaborative skills and experience. We will also support the individuals in creating an updated CV with a partner in recruitment.
5. Live Events with Partners: To showcase the skills learned, we will organise a live event in collaboration with partners. This event will allow participants to demonstrate their abilities, providing a real-world application of their newfound skills. Networking for the individuals to meet industry partners looking for new talent
Budget Allocation:
Funds from this grant will be allocated as follows:
Amounts for each category based on a total grant of £25,000:
- Neurodiverse Community Program fund supporting all aspects of the project: £25,000 × 55% = £13,750
- STEM Hands-On Sessions and Escape Experiences: £25,000 × 15% = £3,750
- Training and Skill Development for Museum Staff: £25,000 × 15% = £3,750
- Live Event with Partners: £25,000 × 10% = £2,500
- Partnership Projects: £25,000 × 10% = £2,500
- Commissioned Research: £25,000 × 5% = £1,250
- Network Hospitality Expenses: Up to £25,000 × 10% = Up to £2,500 (as per the allocated budget)
Expected Outcomes:
1. Increased participation and engagement of the neurodiverse community in museum-related activities bridging skills gaps and empowering individuals .
2. Enhanced skills and expertise among each individual, leading to improved belief in their abilities to move into paid employment
3. Development of innovative STEM programs that inspire a new generation of technology enthusiasts.
4. Successful collaboration with partner institutions, fostering a sense of community and shared learning.
5. Valuable research insights that contribute to best practices in neurodiverse education and inclusive museum experiences.
6. Recruitment of the individuals for the initiative December - Project start date January 2024
Let’s Create opportunities for the communities under represented supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion. We kindly request your support in making this project a reality and look forward to the opportunity to create a more inclusive and vibrant world
Thank you for considering your support of this Project
Images from our coverage from our Autism in the Workplace initiative 2019 which was a huge success!