AN 'iconic' art installation, to raise awareness of neurodiversity, has opened in Bracknell town centre on May 18.

The Neurodiversity Umbrella Project, installed at the Lexicon, aims to raise awareness of learning differences and celebrate intelligence.

Bracknell Forest Council, The Lexicon and the Cambium Partnership, in partnership with the ADHD Foundation Neurodiversity Charity, have worked together to bring the project to Braccan Walk North, where the umbrellas will be suspended until early June.

Leader of Bracknell Forest Council, Cllr Mary Temperton, said: “Recognising the diversity and celebrating the differences of our community is incredibly important – it makes us richer as a society and shows that everyone is welcome and included in Bracknell Forest.

“The umbrella project is a positive celebration of neurodiversity. We have pledged to improve services for children with special educational needs, but this will take some time. This artistic display is a visual cue to get more people thinking about all the contributions neurodivergent people make to our community.

“Thank you to the Cambium Partnership for sponsoring the activity and to the ADHD Foundation for bringing the installation to the borough.” 

It is part of a wider education campaign to create social change and improve career paths and life chances for neurodiverse people.

The council hope the project will recognise the positive skills and contributions they can bring to a workforce and the wider society.

Deputy CEO of the ADHD Foundation Neurodiversity Charity, Emma Weaver, said: "We are so excited for this year's Neurodiversity Umbrella Project installation at The Lexicon in Bracknell, a vibrant celebration of neurodiversity and the unique strengths that individuals with different minds bring.

“We are proud and grateful to have collaborated closely with the Neurodiversity Network, the NHS, and Bracknell Forest Council to support children and young people across East Berkshire. We are looking forward to the future and the positive impact this project will have.”

To find out more on how to get involved visit the ADHD Foundation website here.