On Wednesday, 25 June 2025, Tesco Culverhouse Cross in Cardiff played host to a vital two-hour session as part of USDAW’s (Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers) ‘Celebrating Different Minds’ campaign with support from Adult Learning Wales (ALW). The event focused on Disability and Equality, offering different channels of support and information to parents and carers of neurodivergent family members.

The insightful session was attended by Jack Sargeant MS, Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership in Wales. The session was expertly written and delivered by ALW’s Trade Union tutor, Dr Angela Morelli, who guided attendees through the complexities of neurodiversity and their rights under current legislation.

Participants gained a deeper understanding of what neurodiversity entails, including the concept of overlapping and co-occurring neurodivergence, such as individuals who are both Dyslexic and Autistic. Attendees learned about various types of discrimination—direct, indirect, and discrimination by association—specifically tailored to highlight the challenges faced by parents and carers. The session also covered the Equality Act 2010 (EA10) and, where relevant, it was linked to the impact of EA10 and the impact this has on both what is and what isn’t classed as disability, and the extra legislation in place for those living with a disability. 

Angela said:

“It was a pleasure to work with USDAW reps, together we discussed, developed prior knowledge, and learnt from each other’s lived experience of neurodiversity.   We welcomed Jack Sargent’s visit to the class, his understanding of the importance of Trade Union education and specifically the role reps can play in supporting neurodivergent members. I look forward to working with USDAW in the future.”

The session also shed light on the role and powers of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, offering attendees clarity on their avenues for support and advocacy. To ensure continued assistance, participants were directed to key national organisations, including the National Autistic Society and the British Dyslexia Association, which provide valuable resources for ongoing support.

Also in attendance was Nicholas Paul, Curriculum Support Administrator for TU and Workplace Learning with Adult Learning Wales. Nicholas added:

“It was an interesting opportunity for me as an admin to get out and meet some of our learners rather than just process a list of names. I found the staff welcoming and the environment friendly. It was good to meet some new people and I am pleased with the positive feedback received for the course provided. A big thank you to the staff at Tesco.”

Crian Williams from USDAW on the success of the event:

“Thank you ever so much for Wednesday, the feedback we have received has been fantastic. The participants have told us that it was very informative and interesting. I look forward to working with you in the future. Many thanks again.”

The event at Tesco Culverhouse Cross underscored USDAW’s and ALW’s commitment to promoting equality and building a more understanding and supportive environment for neurodivergent individuals and their families. If you would like to find out more about the ‘Celebrating Different Minds’ campaign, visit www.usdaw.org.uk/latest-news/celebrating-different-minds/