SENDism: A term coined by us to name the prejudicial treatment of people with special educational needs and disabilities. Without explanation it describes systemic, institutional, and individual discrimination, rooted in misunderstanding and bias.

 

Neurotype: A word to acknowledge there is no single “normal” type of brain but there are several types that have common traits. Natural neurological make-up differences that include the wide range of ways people think, feel, process, learn, interact and engage with the world.

 

Neuroinclusion: This is our overall mission and vision: to drive the change in systems needed to reflect the inclusion of all Neurotypes in its decisions, structure, and delivery. Valuing neuro differences from the outset rather than accommodating them as an afterthought.

 

Normative System: This system refers to education and society being designed around assumptions of how a normal or typical child behaves, learns, experiences and responds, excluding all others. SEND a Message highlights the problem is the system.

 

Sciolism: Your stories show how sciolism causes real harm. Unfortunately, there is a lack of comprehensive and standardised training. The assumption of understanding or expertise based on shallow, incomplete, or oversimplified knowledge - leading to decisions that damage rather than support.

 

Universal Design: SEND a Message states: If it works for those with the highest barriers, it will work for everyone. Universal Design for Learning promotes teaching, working, and participation structures that are accessible by design.

 

Representation: SEND a Message believes that no policy about us should be made without us. Representation means Neurodivergent people must be present in all areas where decisions are made — from education and health to justice and employment.

 

Positive Action: SEND a Message promotes the use of Positive Action to rebalance opportunity.Under the Equality Act 2010, Positive Action allows for measures to help people overcome or minimise disadvantage or under-representation.SEND a Message adopts this to reform education and reset the balance for Neuroinclusion.

 

Masking: SEND a Message knows the damage masking does, leading to exhaustion, burnout, and poor mental health.Masking is when Neurodivergent individuals suppress their natural behaviours to blend in or to avoid punishment.

 

Fawning: A form of masking where a person tries to please others (teachers, adults, peers) at the expense of their own needs and wellbeing.SEND a Message acknowledges how fawning can hide true support needs and delay access to help.

 

EBSA: Emotionally Based School Avoidance - this is not refusal, it’s a stark warning of distress. Children are not avoiding school; their body is protecting them from environments that feel overwhelming and unsafe in the school environment due to SENDism.

 

Exclusion: Neurodivergent students are excluded far more often than their peers: whether formally, informally, in isolation rooms, off-rolled and “managed moves". The true scale is underreported due to undiagnosed or self-identified students and SENDism.