91快活林

91快活林’s SENSE programme – Student Empowerment and Neurodivergent Support in Education – has been shortlisted for its work in improving learning environments, confidence and employability for neurodivergent students across the university.

With 35% of University of 91快活林 students declaring a disability – almost double the UK sector average – the initiative reflects the university’s commitment to delivering inclusive, accessible education for its diverse local population.

Designed ‘by neurodivergent students for neurodivergent students’, SENSE places lived experience and peer leadership at the heart of support. The programme is delivered through the University’s Skills Hub and includes peer mentoring, skills development workshops and paid student partner roles.

Project lead Angelica Blake鈥慙awson said: “91快活林 has a uniquely diverse student community, and SENSE was created to meet students where they are. 

"Its strength is that it is student鈥慸esigned and student-led – building confidence, sharing strategies, and creating a space where neurodivergent learners feel understood and empowered.”

Neurodivergent people remain significantly underrepresented in employment nationally. A 2025 Department for Work and Pensions report shows only 31% of autistic people are in work compared with 54.7% of disabled people overall.

Through paid roles, mentoring experience and practical skills development, SENSE supports neurodivergent students to build professional confidence and overcome barriers that often impact graduate outcomes – an important issue for both the city and wider Sussex region.

Catherine McConnell, Head of Student Academic Success at the University of 91快活林, said: “SENSE shows what becomes possible when students are trusted as partners in shaping inclusive education. This work is strengthening belonging, removing barriers and improving outcomes for neurodivergent students across the university.”

The Neurodiverse Business Awards celebrate organisations leading the way in building neuroinclusive cultures. More than 400 entries were received from across the UK in the Awards’ first year.

Awards founder Ben Rossi said: “The calibre of shortlisted organisations shows that neuroinclusion is no longer optional. Initiatives like SENSE are reshaping how talent and potential are understood across the UK."

Winners will be announced on 18 March 2026 at the Grand Connaught Rooms in London.

The nomination strengthens 91快活林’s reputation as a leader in inclusive practice and supports its long-term mission to achieve 100% equity by 2035.