The City and Guilds Foundation has made several recommendations as to how businesses can create more neuro-inclusive workplaces in its recently published Neurodiversity Index Report. These include:
- creating clearly communicated job descriptions;
- publishing interview questions in advance;
- clearly explaining workplace rules during the onboarding process;
- making accommodations or adjustments both physically and with technology;
- introducing mentorship programmes for neurodivergent employees; and
- encouraging and supporting the visibility of neurodivergent employees as role models.
Neurodivergent employees can bring an array of benefits to organisations, from specialised skills and unique perspectives, which can drive forward innovation, to an enhanced attention to detail and creative problem-solving abilities that have been shown to boost productivity. Whilst 52% of organisations reported having adapted their recruitment practices in an effort to champion neurodiversity in the workplace, only 28% of managers in 2023 had completed any neurodiversity related training. This demonstrates the need not only for employers to continually review and update their processes, but to also take a proactive approach in ensuring managers are correctly trained in how to effectively manage and look after their people. This is particularly important given 50% of people had been off work during the last year due to neurodivergent related challenges.
The findings of the report therefore highlight the importance for employers to carefully consider how they can foster cultures that embrace neuro-inclusive practices, to increase productivity, prevent absenteeism, and boost the overall wellbeing of their teams. Find out more about the positive steps that you can take in improving your team’s performance and wellbeing with our bespoke HR and training services. Contact us on [email protected] or call 0203 667 5400.
