Introduction

This introductory chapter situates neurodiversity within contemporary social work, arguing that the profession has been slow to engage meaningfully with the neurodiversity paradigm despite its commitments to social justice, equality, and anti-oppressive practice. It outlines the purpose and scope of the book, which seeks to reimagine social work leadership, supervision, and education as neurodiversity-affirming lens rather than neuronormative lens. Drawing on the authors&s; combined lived and professional experience as neurodivergent social workers, educators, and supervisors, the chapter establishes the ethical, political, and theoretical foundations of the text. It introduces key concepts such as neurodiversity, neuronormativity, and epistemic justice, and explores their relevance to social work values, professional identity, and organisational culture. The chapter also maps the structure of the book, highlighting how theory, lived experience, and practice-based insight are brought together to support managers, leaders, educators, and practitioners to move towards neuroinclusion across the profession.