Supporting Neurodivergent people in the workplace
To effectively support Neurodivergent people in the workplace, we firstly need to understand what Neurodiversity is.
Neurodiversity is a term used to describe a variation in normal human evolution which means some people think differently to others. Neurodiversity conditions include Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Tourette Syndrome and complex tic disorders.
Source oxfordhealth.nhs.uk
The key takeaway here is that some people think differently to others.
Neurodiversity in Business
We’re proud members of the Neurodiversity in Business organisation. We've taken some steps to support clients to understand how to support Neurodivergent people. Equally, we’re working with candidates to understand their needs. Our processes and practices are designed to improve the interview and onboarding experience. We also support clients in ensuring the workplace accommodates the needs of individuals.
The Neurodiversity in Business organisation did a Listen and Learn event. They found that 60% of Neurodivergent people have felt excluded. This is mostly at events due to a lack of accessibility or an environment that is not fully inclusive.
This can be very disheartening and not an equal opportunity for Neurodivergent people. This can also have an adverse effect on their mental health.
Supporting Neurodivergent People in the workplace
A diverse workforce consists of people from different backgrounds who have different experiences. They think differently and this often has a positive outcome on productivity. Creating a work environment where a cohort of diverse people can thrive is crucial.
Here’s how you can make a more inclusive workplace for Neurodivergent people:
- Know what Neurodiversity is and learn about the experiences of Neurodivergent people.
- This will help you understand the need of Neurodivergent people and how to support them better.
- Listen
- Feedback shows Neurodivergent people don’t feel listened to or understood. They need to feel heard.
- Create accessible content. You can find out more on how to do this on the NHS website on making written content more accessible.
- Accessible content creates an inclusive environment. People can read and digest information easily. This helps individuals grow their confidence and independence.
- Understand how people work best
- Create an environment where people can utilise their skill set and take pride in their work.
- Provide quiet and calm spaces
- This helps people take time out whenever needed and have some much-needed quiet time to think out loud.
- This also helps people who struggle with sensory overload to find a space that is quite and calm to help them stop sensory overload.
The resource hub on the Neurodiversity in Business website has some great articles to help you and your organisation understand the needs of Neurodivergent people. As a result, leading to supporting them better and a happier workforce.
