Wondering what neurodiversity in the workplace is? Well, neurodiversity refers to the many different ways in which people’s brains work. Around 1 in 7 people are neurodivergent, which means behaving, thinking, processing and interpreting information in specific ways. The remainder are neurotypical – which society has traditionally considered ‘normal’.

Examples of neurodivergent ways of thinking and behaving

Neurodivergent conditions often exist on a spectrum and can affect people differently. They can include:

• autism and Asperger’s syndrome
• attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• dyslexia
• dyspraxia
• dyscalculia
• dysgraphia
• tic disorders such as Tourette’s syndrome

Neurodiversity at work

Not only can neurodivergent individuals bring fresh thinking and ideas, they can also encourage neurotypical people to broaden their thinking, too, which can lead to enhanced innovation and opportunities for your business.

To support neurodivergent individuals and recognise the unique talents and contributions they make to your organisation, consider what reasonable adjustments you could make in your workplace, such as:

• understanding how each individual works best
• providing supportive technology and equipment
• being extra-clear in our communications
• offering mental health support, advice and guidance

The Neurodiversity Celebration Week website provides lots of information and resources to help people understand neurodiversity. Information and support are also available from charities such as the National Autistic Society and British Dyslexia Association.

If you require further advice on how you can best support neurodivergent individuals in your organisation and encourage an inclusive and supportive culture, we can help.

Learn with us…

Join our next Neurodiversity course for leaders, line managers and recruitment managers to learn more about what neurodiversity in the workplace is.  Additionally, our half day course on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion provides a good overall understanding of the current legal framework around discrimination and good practice regarding equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace.