AN INFORMAL ONLINE GET-TOGETHER
TO CELEBRATE, SUPPORT AND SHARE EXPERIENCES
ORGANISED BY IP ABILITY
THURSDAY 6 June 2024
10 – 11 AM, ONLINE
We were delighted that our very first IP Ability ‘coffee morning’ was on Thursday 6 June 2024, 10 am to 11 am, online.
Who was it for?
IP Ability is the IP Inclusive community for disabled people, neurodivergent individuals, those with chronic health conditions, carers and allies working within the IP profession.
Our coffee date was aimed at anyone interested in sharing or finding out more about misconceptions surrounding disability, chronic conditions and neurodiversity. Everyone who works in IP was welcome.
What was the theme?
Our theme this month was ‘myth-busting disability and neurodiversity’, where we discussed and dispelled some of the misconceptions surrounding disability, chronic conditions and neurodiversity.
Unfortunately stereotyping and myths are quite common. Below are just some examples of misconceptions that you helped bust in our session by sharing your thoughts or experiences. We also welcomed other myths you wanted to tackle.
Myth: ADHD means you can’t concentrate on anything
Reality: ADHD affects attention in complex ways which can vary depending on the interest level
“Sometimes I find it challenging to get started on a task, but once I have made a start, I am able to hyperfocus.”
“Listening to music really helps me to focus my attention on the task at hand.”
Myth: Health conditions/disabilities are either mild or severe
Reality: Symptoms and needs often fluctuate
“I have good days and bad days, and just because I can’t do certain things bad day does not mean that I can’t do them on a good day.”
“When my rheumatoid arthritis flares up, I use walking aids, but on good days I don’t need them.”
“There’s nothing per se that I can’t do, but I have to pace myself – check out ‘spoon theory.’”
Myth: You can’t be autistic because you’re not like my neighbour’s son
Reality: Autism is a spectrum. Women in particular have been overlooked and underdiagnosed for many years
“Being autistic means that my brain works differently, but I have learned to navigate neurotypical society.”
“Environmental activist Great Thunberg, TV presenter Chris Packham and comedian Fern Brady, all of whom have shared that they are autistic, are probably also nothing like your neighbour’s son.”
Our coffee date provided a safe, supportive forum to celebrate, share experiences, ask questions and learn.
Cost
This event was free. So are all our resources. We think it’s important to keep IP Inclusive on the right side of the paywall.
That said, we do need money to keep the show on the road, so if you enjoyed the event please consider contributing to our fundraising campaign. For more information – including about corporate donations – visit our fundraising page.
More events and resources…
We hope to organise more coffee dates throughout the year.
We’ve compiled a collection of useful links and resources to help IP professionals and employers become more disability-confident, that you can access here. We also have an established LinkedIn group for IP professionals who want to exchange news, views and ideas – please do request to join.
Any other questions?
If you have any other questions about IP Ability or the coffee morning please email us at: [email protected].
Important Disclaimer
Please note that we do not offer medical advice at this type of event, just exchanging experiences and ideas. Please seek specialist medical advice before undergoing any form of medical or alternative therapy.