Championing Neurodiversity in Careers: Welsh Adviser Wins National Award

Bethan Williams, a Careers Wales adviser from Cardiff, has been honored with a prestigious national award for her innovative work in making career support more accessible for neurodivergent individuals. Recognized in the “Career Development Professional Working in Non-Education Settings” category at the 2025 Careers Development Institute (CDI) Awards, Bethan's efforts have significantly improved the careers service for neurodivergent customers.

Bethan introduced an introductory support package designed to ease the first-time visit experience for neurodivergent individuals. This package includes written and visual information, featuring a “Welcome Wall” with photos of staff, their names, and job titles, allowing visitors to familiarize themselves with the team beforehand. This initiative aims to reduce anxiety and foster a welcoming environment by showing customers who their adviser will be on the day.

Beyond individual support, Bethan played a pivotal role in organizing an Inclusive Jobs Fair in Cardiff, which attracted over 240 attendees. This event underscored the importance of creating opportunities that cater to everyone, regardless of their neurodiversity.

Expressing her joy over the award, Bethan shared, “I’m absolutely over the moon to win this award. It means a lot to know the work I’ve done is making a real difference.” She emphasized her goal to make career centers less overwhelming and more welcoming for neurodivergent individuals, hoping to encourage more people to seek the support available to them.

Nikki Lawrence, chief executive at Careers Wales, praised Bethan’s achievement, stating, “We are thrilled that Bethan’s outstanding work has been recognized on a national stage.” Lawrence highlighted the importance of accessible and supportive services for neurodiverse individuals in building an impartial and inclusive career guidance system.

The 2025 CDI Awards ceremony, held at the Royal National Hotel in London, celebrated excellence in the careers development profession across the UK, with Bethan’s work standing out as a beacon of innovation and inclusivity.