CIHT has released a new episode of Transport Talks, featuring an in‑depth conversation between Justin Ward, CIHT’s Head of Policy and Technical Practice, and Professor Amanda Kirby, one of the UK’s leading experts on neurodiversity. This timely discussion coincides with the launch of two new CIHT Learn courses co‑developed with Prof Kirby, aimed at supporting neurodivergent professionals and improving the accessibility of planning, highways and transportation.
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Listen here: (please note that CIHT podcast series 'Transport Talks' is available on most channels including Apple and Spotify.
In the episode, Justin and Amanda explore three fundamental questions:
Prof Kirby, who has worked in the field of neurodiversity for nearly 40 years - as a GP, academic, researcher, author and CEO of a “tech for good” organisation - reflects on how rapidly the language, understanding and lived experience of neurodivergence are changing.
She highlights that terms once taken for granted - such as Asperger’s syndrome, “high” and “low” functioning, or even the medical framing of ADHD - are shifting as society gains more nuance, lived experience becomes more visible, and social media reshapes discourse.
Language is moving faster now than ever,” Prof Kirby explains. “What we’re seeing is people wanting to describe themselves in terms that feel authentic to them. Neurodiversity captures the idea that we all think and process differently.
A recurring theme throughout the conversation is the importance of moving away from strictly medicalised labels and towards a needs‑led, whole‑system approach.
Rather than expecting designers, transport planners or employers to interpret complex diagnostic categories, Amanda advocates for universal design principles - practical, inclusive approaches that benefit everyone:
Such approaches don’t only support neurodivergent individuals, but also people with visual impairments, those whose first language isn’t English, older people, and anyone navigating unfamiliar environments.
If we design from the edges,” she notes, “we help everyone. Universal design isn’t a neurodiversity strategy - it’s good design
The conversation also touches on implications for employers, particularly with regard to the Equality Act 2010 and Health and Safety legislation.
Prof Kirby stresses the importance of being anticipatory; not waiting for someone to request adjustments, but embedding good practice in recruitment, interviewing, onboarding and daily management.
She also highlights the increasing number of employment tribunals linked to neurodiversity, reminding employers of both the legal and moral imperative to support staff effectively.
When employers shift to asking: what do you need to do your best work?—that’s when real inclusion happens.
As part of CIHT’s commitment to supporting a more inclusive profession, two new e‑learning courses - developed with Prof Kirby - are now available:
Neurodivergent Transport Professionals
Planning, Highways and Transportation for Neurodivergent People
These courses provide insights for individuals and organisations, covering both workplace considerations and the design of the public realm. CIHT would highlight how our sector can make real, positive impact - both in how we work and in the environments we shape. These courses offer practical knowledge and real‑world insight that will benefit everyone.
CIHT was pleased to have worked with Amanda on developing the CIHT Learn Courses. About the course author:
Amanda is an emeritus professor at the University of South Wales, an honorary professor at Cardiff University, and a Visiting Professor at Trinity College Dublin.
She is the founder and CEO of Do-IT Solutions, a globally recognised tech-for-good company specialising in neurodiversity screening and support tools for education and employment, and justice settings.
With more than 35 years of clinical and research experience in neurodiversity, Amanda has authored 10 books and over 100 research papers. Her 2021 book, Neurodiversity at Work, won the EDI Business Book Award. She was the Chair of the ADHD Foundation and has worked closely with several other charities in this sector. She has been a contributor to developing global standards, such as the UK’s BSI’s Design for the Mind guidelines. She is currently writing her 11th book on Neurodiversity and Parenting.
She has recently chaired the Neurodiversity at Work review for DWP and is leading on the City and Guilds Neurodiversity Index- 2026, which will be out in March.
Amanda is a LinkedIn Top Voice with 150,000+ followers and has a weekly subscriber base to her Neurodiversity 101 newsletter of 165,000+.
Her passion remains championing neurodivergent talent and creating inclusive workplaces as a parent, grandparent of neurodivergent family members, as well as recognising herself as having neurodivergent traits.
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