Following its standout debut earlier this year, Neuro North Forum returns on 19th March 2026, bringing together professionals, advocates, and individuals with first-hand insight to explore the power of neurodiversity at work. We spoke with founder Jacky Stansfield Smith about what’s next.
Jacky is Managing Director of Celebrate Difference and Founder of the innovative HR inclusion company IncluScape, leading two purpose-driven organisations that help neurodivergent business owners and workplaces move beyond awareness to real, measurable inclusion.
Alongside her core work, Jacky brings her strategic insight as a charity trustee and voluntary board member across three organisations committed to social change. As an Army Veteran, she is deeply passionate about supporting the Armed Forces community and proudly serves as Co-Chair of the Ministry of Defence Gold Award Association in the North East region, championing inclusive employment and recognition for veteran and reservist friendly organisations.
We caught up with Jacky to discuss the upcoming 2026 Neuro North Forum, building on the momentum of its inaugural event in March, which brought together a packed audience of professionals and advocates, sparking conversations, learning and connections around neurodiversity in the workplace.
EDB: What motivated your shift from corporate CEO to inclusion strategist? JSS: After a long career in corporate leadership, I made the decision to step away and pursue an idea I couldn’t ignore, that real change was possible in the workplace if we started valuing people who think differently. I’ve always believed that every brain is unique, and that difference isn’t a deficit, it’s a strength. I wanted to explore how organisations could better understand neurodivergence and benefit from it, not just accommodate it. By adjusting job roles to align with individual strengths, businesses can unlock potential, spark creativity and innovation, encourage problem solving, improve wellbeing, and build cultures where everyone has the chance to shine, to belong.
EDB: Can you tell us more about IncluScape’s approach to inclusion? JSS: IncluScape is a workplace consultancy specialising in neuroinclusion. We help organisations move beyond awareness to measurable change by embedding inclusive practices that support neurodivergent talent. Our work spans strategy, policy, training, and culture design, always grounded in experience and practical outcomes. Whether working with HR teams, leaders, or frontline staff, our goal is to create environments where people feel safe, valued, and able to contribute. Because when people feel like they belong, they perform, and that benefits everyone.
EDB: And how did Neuro North Forum come about? JSS: Neuro North Forum was born from an idea to bring together people to reimagine neurodiversity at work. I saw the need for a space that wasn’t just about awareness but about action, community, and change. I was delighted the inaugural event was a sell-out success, proving interest throughout our region on the subject. Neuro North Forum is about amplifying voices, sharing tools, and building a future where neurodivergent people lead, contribute, and shape the workplace on their own terms. We welcomed speakers from Durham University Business School and Durham Businesses, Murtek IT and Communications, MIND Your Business, The Spark Labs, AAA Caring Caretaker, Amazon and many other organisations wanting to be involved in the impact of the event.
EDB: You’ve just announced the 2026 show and already have sponsors and exhibitors lined up, don’t you? JSS: We do, in 2026 we welcome new speakers, sponsors, panelists and exhibitors from around the region. Businesses have already committed their support, recognising the value of being part of something that’s purpose-driven and professionally impactful. We’ve created an event where organisations can showcase inclusive practice, connect with changemakers, and learn from people’s experience. Neuro North Forum isn’t just about visibility, we’re building something special, and it’s exciting to see businesses and advocates stepping up to be part of it.
EDB: What are the key challenges businesses are facing when it comes to workplace inclusion? JSS: One of the biggest challenges is moving from intention to implementation. Many organisations want to be inclusive but don’t know where to start, or they worry about getting it wrong. There’s also a tendency to focus on awareness campaigns without embedding structural change. Businesses need tools, support, and accountability to make inclusion real, not just aspirational.
EDB: Why does neurodiversity play such a significant role in your work? JSS: Neurodiversity is central to my work because it’s often overlooked, and yet it holds incredible potential. Neurodivergent people bring unique strengths, perspectives, and creativity to the workplace, but they’re frequently unsupported or misunderstood. I’ve seen how small changes, like flexible communication, sensory-aware environments, and inclusive policies, can make a huge difference. Neurodiversity isn’t a challenge to be managed; it’s a strength to be embraced. My work is about helping organisations recognise that, and build cultures where neurodivergent talent is celebrated.
EDB: Tell us about The BELONG Framework ®… JSS: The BELONG Framework® is a practical model I developed to help organisations embed inclusion in a way that’s measurable, sustainable, and culture-shifting. It stands for Balance, Engage, Legislation, Onboarding & Recruitment, Nurture, and Growth, these six pillars work together to create real change. Workshops to deliver an understanding of the difference between fitting in, and belonging, which helps leaders and teams assess where they are, identify gaps, and build strategies that work. It’s been used across sectors, and it’s transforming how organisations think about inclusion.