Neurodiversity
and Inclusion
Policy

Purpose

Antei-ji exists to offer authentic Zen training to all who sincerely wish to undertake it. We do however, recognise that people experience the world in different ways. Some members of our community are neurodivergent. Others may live with physical disabilities, long-term health conditions, mental health difficulties or hidden disabilities. We are committed to creating an environment where everyone is treated with dignity, respect and compassion.

Zen training is challenging by its very nature. We do not remove the essential discipline of practice, but where possible we seek to remove unnecessary barriers that prevent people from participating.

Our Commitment

Anteiji will:

  • Welcome people regardless of disability and neurodivergence.
  • Treat everyone with courtesy and respect.
  • Avoid discrimination.
  • Make reasonable adjustments where appropriate and practical.
  • Listen openly and non-judgmentally to individual needs..
  • Encourage mutual understanding and harmony within the Sangha.
Neurodiversity

We recognise that neurodivergence is a natural variation of human experience.

This may include, but is not limited to:

  • Autism
  • ADHD
  • Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and Dyscalculla
  • Tourette syndrome
  • Other recognised neurodevelopmental differences

People experience these conditions differently. We therefore avoid assumptions and seek to understand individual needs rather than applying stereotypes.

Reasonable Adjustments

Where practical and appropriate, Antei-ji may offer adjustments such as:

  • Clear written information and schedules before events.
  • Advance notice of any structural and scheduling changes.
  • Designated quiet spaces for sensory decompression where available.
  • The autonomy to step outside or adjust posture if overwhelmed.
  • Flexible seating arrangements where possible.
  • Alternative accessible ways of communicating.
  • Additional instruction or explanation of ceremony or practice upon request.
  • Opportunities to discuss individual needs confidentially before attending.

Not every adjustment will be possible in every circumstance, particularly during formal retreats (sesshin) or traditional ceremonies, but every request will be considered carefully and compassionately.

Shared Responsibilities

Members of the Sangha are encouraged to:

  • Treat others with consistant kindness and patience.
  • Respect differences in communication styles and social processing.
  • Refrain from harsh or sudden judgement.
  • Speak directly and honestly and gently where misunderstandings arise.
  • Support an atmosphere of safety and mutual respect.
Maintaining the Integrity of Practice

Antei-ji offers traditional Zen training. While we are committed to making reasonable adjustments, the essential elements of Zen practice, including periods of silence, meditation, chanting, communal etiquette, and ethical conduct, remain central to our training.

If aspects of practice prove fundamentally difficult for an individual, teachers will work with them to find appropriate, compassionate and creative ways forward wherever possible.

Confidentiality

Information shared regarding disability or neurodivergence will be treated confidentially and only shared with those who need to know in order to provide appropriate support, unless required by law or safeguarding responsibilities.

Concerns

Anyone who feels they have experienced discrimination, exclusion or unnecessary barriers is encouraged to speak with a Zen Minister, Zen Monk, the Safeguarding Lead or another appropriate member of the Antei-ji leadership. Concerns will be listened to respectfully and considered fairly.

Legal Framework

This policy reflects the statutory principles of the Equality Act 2010 and embodies Antei-ji’s commitment to providing reasonable adjustments where required by law.

A Final Reflection

In Zen we do not ask people to become someone else before they enter the gate. We meet one another exactly as we are. Every mind is different. Every person has Buddha Nature. Our task is not to erase difference, but to practise together with wisdom, patience and compassion.

Antei-ji