Laura Spence

Laura Spence is a dedicated and dynamic midwife with over a decade of experience.

Her outstanding commitment to women's health and neurodiversity advocacy has earned her a spot on the shortlist for the prestigious Nursing Times Midwife of the Year Award 2024.

Her advocacy for neurodiversity in women's health is deeply personal, stemming from her own journey with autism and ADHD. Laura's diagnosis of ADHD later in life has driven her to leverage her unique perspective to champion the voices of neurodivergent women in the healthcare industry.

With a rich background in women's health—spanning sexual and reproductive health, birth trauma, and parental mental health—Laura is on the brink of completing her master's degree in Perinatal Mental Health. Her groundbreaking thesis focuses on the postnatal experiences of women with ADHD, underscoring her commitment to enhancing healthcare for neurodivergent populations.

As a proud podcaster, Laura hosts two influential podcasts: She Thrives ADHD and Another Podcast. In these podcasts, she empowers listeners by sharing lived experiences and insights that resonate with many. Her dedication to this medium is recognised in her nomination for the Women in Podcasting Global Award 2024.

An accomplished author and illustrator, Laura's first children’s book, The Adventures of Granny Whistle Nose: Fly Little Bird, was published in June 2024 and aims to inspire young readers. Beyond her creative pursuits, she is the founder and managing director of NeuroNatal Academy C.I.C, an innovative educational platform designed to equip professionals with the knowledge they need at the intersection of perinatal health and neurodivergence.

Laura is dedicated to building communities. She has founded local and online support groups for neurodivergent women, student midwives, and midwives. These initiatives have created close-knit communities that inspire and empower late-diagnosed individuals every day. She is actively co-creating resources to support neurodivergent healthcare professionals and students, with the goal of improving career retention during this critical time for the profession.

Laura exemplifies an unwavering commitment to inclusivity and empowerment through her extensive contributions to perinatal mental health. Her allyship and advocacy for marginalised communities underscores her dedication to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those she serves.

Laura Spence goes above and beyond the role of a midwife. She tirelessly works to uplift and inspire others in the pursuit of enhanced healthcare and social justice for all women, serving as a beacon of hope and change.