Supporting Neurodivergent Students

About

'Supporting Neurodivergent Students as they Navigate Intimate Relationships within Higher Education' research report (launched 30 April 2026) is a timely and much needed contribution to how higher education institutions in Ireland understand and support the lived experiences of neurodivergent students - not only academically, but across all aspects of college life.

A defining feature of the project is its participatory, social‑justice‑informed approach. Guided by the principle “nothing about us without us,” neurodivergent students served as co‑researchers throughout the process. They shaped the research questions, contributed to data collection and analysis, and informed the interpretation of findings. Their voices are central to the report, resulting in recommendations that are authentic, grounded, and actionable.

Download the Supporting Neurodivergent Students as they Navigate Intimate Relationships within Higher Education report here.

This work was led by Mary Immaculate College in partnership with the Technological University of the Shannon and the University of Limerick. We extend our sincere thanks to Dr Michele Dunleavy for her leadership, to the thirty‑seven students who shared their experiences, and to the student co‑researchers whose insight and integrity strengthened the project. The research was funded by the Higher Education Authority and aligns with the National Framework for Consent in Higher Education Institutions and national efforts to end sexual violence and harassment across the sector.

The report is accompanied by two additional resources - an infographic and an animation - that highlight the key themes emerging from the study. Together, these outputs aim to inform policy, shape practice, and inspire continued collaboration across Irish higher education.