There’s no doubt about it. Fostering an inclusive workplace environment is no longer just the right thing to do – it’s a good business decision. According to Forbes, inclusive teams make better business decisions 87% of the time. 

With at least 15% of the UK population officially diagnosed as neurodivergent, it is essential that we create inclusive workplace cultures where neurodivergent employees feel secure and confident to be themselves. 

What is Neurodiversity? 

Neurodiversity is the term often used to describe the natural variations of cognitive function which create differences in the way that we think, process, learn and behave. Autism, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia are included under the umbrella of neurodiversity.  

In our Northern Power Women podcast episode with Sarah McLean, Scrum Master for Barclays Technology, she shares her experience of being a parent of three children with ASD and the importance of having support within the workplace. Sarah calls for organisations to take responsibility and have conversations are how to better support those affected by neurodiversity. 

‘Organisations need to be intentional and clear in what they want to achieve by engaging neurodiversity in all conversations and start adapting now’. 

In our wellbeing webinar, How to Build Resilience in Challenging Times, Lee Chambers, who was diagnosed with autism as an adult, also emphasises the importance of making accommodations for neurodivergent individuals in the workplace. Although every individual is different and has different needs, accommodations regarding flexibility, sensory issues and communication should be promoted by employers. Hearing the lived experiences of those experiencing neurodiversity is essential to making the workplace a more comfortable and accessible environment.