Adam Dance MP's Neurodivergence Bill moves to second reading

The Neurodivergence (Screening and Teacher Training) Bill, introduced by Liberal Democrat MP Adam Dance of the Yeovil constituency, aims to improve support for neurodivergent children in UK primary schools through early screening and improved teacher training.

The Bill was formally published following its first reading in Parliament and is scheduled for a second reading on Friday, January 16.

Mr Dance said: "This Bill is about giving teachers the tools and training they need to support every child in their classroom.

"Too many neurodivergent pupils are struggling not because they lack ability, but because their needs are not recognised early enough."

The second reading is when MPs debate a Bill’s main principles and decide if it should progress further.

If passed, the Bill would require the Department for Education to develop proposals for "universal, light touch" screening of neurodivergent traits in primary schools, alongside statutory guidance on teacher training.

Mr Dance said the focus is not on diagnosis or labelling but on helping teachers understand each child’s strengths and challenges.

He said this approach would enable "simple adjustments" to be made in the classroom to prevent children from falling behind or losing confidence.

The Bill has gained support from senior colleagues, including Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey MP and education spokesperson Munira Wilson MP.

Mr Dance said he believes the plan offers a "clear and practical framework" that the Government could adopt, either through the Bill itself or broader reforms to special educational needs and disabilities support.

He plans to continue pressing ministers to take the proposals forward, regardless of the Bill’s progress in the current parliamentary session, and indicated it could be reintroduced in the next parliamentary year if necessary.