Biography

Cabinet Member for Social Services & Locally Elected Representative

Laura Lacey is a dedicated advocate for neurodiversity, serving as an ADHD UK Ambassador and Autism and Neurodiversity Champion for the Gwent region. Diagnosed with ADHD and autism in her 40s, following an earlier dyslexia diagnosis, her lived experience drives her commitment to advancing support and understanding for neurodivergent individuals. Professionally, she works as a Data Specialist, using evidence and analysis to influence meaningful policy change. As a Cabinet Member for Social Services and locally elected representative, Laura actively lobbies both Welsh and UK governments to ensure neurodivergent voices are represented in decision-making. Her work focuses on amplifying often-overlooked perspectives, advocating for earlier diagnosis and stronger support systems, and fostering a society where neurodivergent individuals are not only accommodated but valued.

Leading With Lived Experience: ADHD Voices in Government

What happens when neurodivergent people move beyond being consulted and begin leading — shaping policy, making decisions, and setting the agenda? In this session, Cllr Laura Lacey shares her perspective as an elected representative, a parent of neurodivergent children, and someone living with ADHD, autism & dyslexia. She explores why it is vital that governments at every level are informed and led by people who truly understand the struggles and realities of neurodivergent lives. Drawing on her work in Newport, where she successfully introduced a motion to make the city Neurodivergent Friendly, Laura shows how representation at the top can transform both policy and lived experience.

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