NHS Neurodiversity

The NHS Neurodiversity Hub Dorset approached us with a complex brief: create content that would inform, support, and destigmatise neurodiversity. The challenge lay in navigating sensitive personal stories whilst maintaining professionalism and accuracy.

Our approach was multifaceted. We produced, filmed, and edited a series of personal narratives, focusing on lived experiences before and after diagnosis. These raw, authentic stories highlighted the challenges and triumphs of neurodivergent individuals and their families. Alongside these interviews, we crafted an animation combining photography and illustrations to visually represent the spectrum of neurodiversity. This piece now features prominently on the Hub's website, serving as an engaging introduction to the topic.

Throughout the project, we grappled with the industry-wide challenge of balancing accessibility with visual appeal. While terms like 'accessibility' and 'authenticity' are often used lightly in our field, this project brought their complexities into sharp focus. We learned valuable lessons about the delicate balance between creating eye-catching content and avoiding potential distractions for neurodivergent viewers.

This experience has deepened our understanding of truly inclusive design.

The project's impact has been significant. The personal stories have provided valuable insights and support for the neurodivergent community, while the animation offers an accessible entry point for those new to the subject. Our ongoing work with professionals in the field continues to add depth and credibility to the Hub's resources. Throughout, we've maintained a focus on authenticity, ensuring that the content reflects real-world experiences and available support. This project underscores key principles: in handling sensitive subjects, empathy and accuracy are paramount, and true accessibility requires thoughtful, nuanced design.