Constant firework display in the mind. In today’s Christmas Day Short Talk Judith Germain speaks to Reverend Ian Notts about the challenges around dyslexia and ADHD. In this conversation we touch on Ian’s faith and how that impacts on how he sees how we can work with the neurodiverse.
Ian stressed working with individuals to find personalised solutions. Preparing to engage differently and make faith accessible is key. Judith advises leaders to look for signs and ease life through transparency.
Key Takeaways
- Ian struggled in school with undiagnosed dyslexia and ADHD, feeling like an “odd” child.
- Structured routines, breaking tasks into short focused chunks, and morning work times help Ian stay productive with ADHD.
- Art and visual methods worked best when engaging youth offenders with neurodiversity in restorative justice practices.
- Leaders should engage directly with neurodiverse individuals to learn how to make services more accessible.
Topics:
Ian’s Background
- Biggest passion is climbing, pictured is Mont Blanc range where he climbed. Enjoys outdoor sports and adventure.
- Went through schooling with undiagnosed dyslexia/ADHD, felt school was a waste of time. These conditions were not understood.
- Dyslexia/ADHD have been a challenge to understand himself and develop helpful strategies over time.
Managing Dyslexia and ADHD
- Ian uses structured color-coded schedules, routines, and timed work chunks to stay focused with ADHD. Can’t take too long on one task.
- Works best focusing in the mornings. Afternoon concentration wanders. Prioritizes things needing concentration.
- Medication can help slow down the constant “fireworks” in an ADHD brain. But Ian finds routines more helpful.
Working with Youth Offenders
- ~80% of Ian’s youth offender clients had neurodiversity/language issues. Most couldn’t read well.
- Offending often resulted from lack of support for their differences. Ian saw the good in these young people.
- Art, imagery, and visual methods worked best with these clients. Talking feelings was very difficult.
Ministry and Neurodiversity
- Ministry shares social work values of equality, purpose, love, and caring for others. The gospel is the difference.
- Church services can be odd or weird for those unfamiliar. The words may not connect or make sense.
- Ministers must break down barriers to help people relate to God and meaningful relationships.
Reverend Ian Notts is a curate within the Church of England. He was previously a social worker.
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You can listen to Episode 380 on any of the popular podcast platforms or apps (including Spotify, and Audible). If you prefer to listen to your browser you can do that below. Enjoy!