October is a month filled with an above-average number of important awareness campaigns and inclusion-focused events that encourage reflection, action, and community support – and we don’t want you to miss any of them! Below, we’ve highlighted some of the key dates that you may wish to mark in communications and activities…
Black History Month
Date: October (UK)
Black History Month celebrates the contributions, history, and culture of Black communities. It is a time to learn about the impact of Black leaders, artists, and pioneers while addressing systemic racism and inequality.
More info: https://www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Date: October
This global campaign increases awareness of breast cancer, promotes early detection, and raises funds for research and support. Employers often show solidarity through awareness activities, fundraising, and encouraging regular health checks.
ADHD Awareness Month
Date: October
Dedicated to raising awareness of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, this campaign promotes understanding and acceptance of ADHD across all ages. Businesses can help by adopting inclusive practices and recognising the strengths of neurodiverse employees.
More info: https://www.adhdawarenessmonth.org
Dyslexia Awareness Week
Date: 6–13 October
This week raises awareness of dyslexia, highlighting the creativity and strengths of people with dyslexia as well as the challenges they face. Employers are encouraged to foster supportive workplace practices, from assistive technology to tailored communication styles.
More info: https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk
Sukkot (Jewish)
Date: 6–13 October
A major Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites’ journey through the desert after their exodus from Egypt. Families build sukkahs (temporary huts) to symbolise shelter and protection.
More info: https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/sukkot-101
World Dyslexia Awareness Day
Date: 8 October
Part of the broader dyslexia awareness campaigns, this day focuses on increasing understanding of dyslexia worldwide. It encourages schools, businesses, and communities to embrace neurodiverse talent and provide the tools necessary for success.
More info: https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk
Baby Loss Awareness Week
Date: 9–15 October
A week dedicated to supporting those who have experienced miscarriage, stillbirth, or the death of a baby. It provides a space for remembrance and raises awareness of the impact of baby loss. Businesses can mark this week with compassionate policies and signposting support resources.
More info: https://babyloss-awareness.org
World Sight Day
Date: 9 October
Coordinated by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, this global day focuses on eye health and vision care. With over a billion people worldwide living with preventable or untreated vision impairment, awareness is crucial for both personal wellbeing and workplace inclusion.
More info: https://www.iapb.world/world_sight_day
World Mental Health Day
Date: 10 October
Led by the World Health Organization, this day aims to raise awareness and mobilise efforts to support global mental health. Employers can use the day to highlight available support services, reduce stigma, and encourage open conversations about wellbeing.
More info: https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-mental-health-day
International Day of the Girl
Date: 11 October
Established by the UN, this day promotes girls’ rights and highlights the challenges they face, from gender-based violence to lack of educational opportunities. Businesses can show support by championing gender equality and empowering future female leaders.
More info: https://www.un.org/en/observances/girl-child-day
National Coming Out Day
Date: 11 October
First celebrated in the US, National Coming Out Day recognises the importance of visibility for the LGBTQ+ community. It’s an opportunity for allies to show support and for organisations to reaffirm their commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion.
More info: https://www.hrc.org/resources/national-coming-out-day
OCD Awareness Week
Date: 12–18 October
Organised by the International OCD Foundation, this week raises awareness of obsessive-compulsive disorder and combats misconceptions. Employers can support employees by learning about OCD, providing reasonable adjustments, and fostering a culture of empathy.
More info: https://iocdf.org/programs/ocdweek
Shemini Atzeret (Jewish)
Date: 13–14 October
This Jewish holiday immediately follows Sukkot and is a time of reflection and prayer for rain, symbolising renewal and sustenance. Awareness of religious holidays helps ensure inclusivity in workplaces with Jewish employees.
More info: https://www.hebcal.com/holidays/shmini-atzeret-2025
Simchat Torah (Jewish)
Date: 14-15 October
Simchat Torah celebrates the conclusion of the annual Torah reading cycle and the beginning of a new one. It is a joyous festival marked by dancing and celebration in synagogues.
More info: https://www.hebcal.com/holidays/simchat-torah
