DuoDay at the University of Edinburgh is part of a Europe-wide initiative that promotes inclusion through cultural change, breaking down barriers for neurodivergent people, and those with long-term health conditions. The event brings together participants, employers, and supported employment organisations for a day of job shadowing, connection, and mentoring. At the University of Edinburgh, DuoDay is organised by HR EDI in collaboration with the Scottish Union of Supported Employment (SUSE).
Since joining the initiative in 2024, the University has continued to build on its success, with DuoDay 2025 reinforcing how meaningful, inclusive experiences benefit not only participants, but also mentors, teams, and the wider university community.
This year, Cristina from the Patrick Wild Centre (PWC) and Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain (SIDB) took part as a DuoDay mentor. Cristina hosted two neurodivergent participants — a double-qualified solicitor with a PhD in cognitive science and creative practice, and a statistician who is also a mathematics and data science tutor. Together, they discussed the barriers neurodivergent people often face in employment, as well as the unique strengths they bring.
Cristina noted, ‘we discussed the barriers faced by neurodivergent people like us and how science and academia can be particularly good at embracing non-linear thinkers’
Mentors play a vital role in DuoDay by creating welcoming, accessible experiences and challenging stereotypes in the workplace. In return, mentors gain fresh perspectives, develop coaching skills, broaden their networks, and contribute to a culture where diversity is valued and barriers are actively challenged.
DuoDay reflects our ongoing commitment to equality, inclusion, and supporting diverse talent to thrive. We are grateful to mentors like Cristina for helping turn these values into meaningful action. If you are interested in participating as either a mentor or a mentee, please get in touch with the HR EDI team (equalitydiversity@ed.ac.uk) to express your interest in a DuoDay experience.
