Inspiring event aimed at supporting region's neurodivergent community takes place

An inspiring event aimed at supporting the region’s neurodivergent community has taken place.

The Magna Trust and Autism Plus Bridges to Work event at Magna Science Adventure Centre in Rotherham brought together people from across Yorkshire to explore charities, businesses, and educational providers championing inclusion and supporting the neurodivergent community.

A spokesperson for Doncaster sensory solutions firm AmbiSpace said: “It was an inspiring day filled with learning, connection, and powerful conversations about accessible employment.”

Magna’s CEO Richard Hammill and Gill Cockcroft from Acorn Industrial Services delivered a powerful panel discussion with Magna employee Millie, and Acorn employees Connor, and Chloe, who openly shared their journeys into work.

Millie has been with Magna for a year and now thrives in the café.

Connor described how starting a “proper job” was daunting, but with training and routine, he now feels confident and independent.

Chloe found her rhythm thanks to a simple whiteboard system that helps her organise tasks.

Having a job has boosted her social confidence, even leading her to visit a cat café with her boyfriend.

The spokesperson added: “Their stories were honest, uplifting, and a reminder of why inclusive workplaces matter and truly make a difference.

“Autism Plus delivered an incredible event, with Suzanne Eusman giving a brilliant talk on the importance of sensory inclusion in the workplace.

“Her insight highlighted how small adjustments can create meaningful change for neurodivergent employees.

“AmbiSpace were proud to support the event with our sensory igloo, giving students and staff from educational providers across Yorkshire the chance to experience sensory inclusion first‑hand.

“Many visitors shared how impactful it was to learn how AmbiSpace can support and empower the neurodivergent community through thoughtful sensory design. “

Joanne Forster, Supported Internship Lead at Doncaster Council visited the sensory igloo and was so impressed that she expressed interest in working with AmbiSpace in the future, which is a fantastic step toward wider local collaboration in Doncaster, the spokesperson added.

Students and staff from Sheffield College, including Adam, Lillie‑May, and Tracy Hippisley‑Cox, also loved their introduction to the sensory igloo and were eager to learn more about sensory inclusion.

They added: “This event showcased exactly what can happen when organisations come together with a shared mission: to create inclusive, empowering opportunities for neurodivergent people across Yorkshire. “