Inspiration in Education nomination – Nelly’s Nest

Inspiration in Education nomination – Nelly’s Nest

Josie Vujcic is the founder of Nelly’s Nest, author of the book Nelly’s Not Naughty and a passionate advocate for neurodiversity and the inclusion of individuals with hidden disabilities.

Nelly’s Nest champions neurodiverse voices by offering services in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire and across the UK. Its work includes training and development programs, community outreach and support initiatives to empower individuals, families and professionals.

Josie has a background in SEN within schools and formed Nelly’s Nest a couple of years ago with the aim of creating inclusive spaces where neurodiverse individuals feel understood, valued and supported.

Josie leads a team of five staff, all of whom who have a background of working with neurodiverse people of all ages.

Nelly’s Nest works with schools and businesses, helping to create environments that are inclusive, understanding and supportive.

Schools are given targeted support to help staff identify, understand and meet the diverse needs of SEND pupils, promoting inclusion and confidence across the school community. Businesses receive practical, scalable training to build inclusive policies, improve team awareness and support neurodiverse employees and clients.

Nelly’s Nest can also be found at events and festivals equipped with resources, sensory tools, de-escalation equipment and trained therapeutic staff to allow events to be accessible to all.

Josie said: “I am really proud to be an advocate for inclusivity of neurodiversity. We now offer a variety of services all over Staffordshire and around the UK to support, encourage and include the neurodiverse community.

“Only through acknowledgment of diversity can we achieve inclusivity. At Nelly’s Nest we understand that individuals experience and interact with the world in diverse ways, including those with conditions like autism, ADHD and learning disabilities.

“That is why we promote and champion inclusion and acceptance of these differences as we recognise that everyone’s brain works differently and that these variations contribute to a richer, more diverse society.”

Nelly’s Nest has been nominated in the Inspiration in Education category of the Your Heroes Awards.

The nominator said: “Nelly’s Nest is not just a group, it’s a lifeline, an educator, an advocate and a community builder. This nomination celebrates everything they’ve achieved and the bright, inclusive future they’re creating for everyone touched by neurodiversity.”