How Development Bank of Wales built a healthier workplace by supporting neurodiversity at work
Development Bank of Wales is supporting neurodiversity awareness with training, organisation-wide awareness sessions and the development of Neurodiversity Ambassadors.
About Development Bank of Wales
Development Bank of Wales (DBW) helps businesses get the finance they need to start, grow and succeed. Support the economy in Wales and the North and South West of England, DBW offers flexible finance – from £1,000 up to £10 million – through loans and equity investment. Their aim is to make finance easier to access so businesses, communities and people can thrive.
With around 290 colleagues working across a range of roles and locations, DBW is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace for everyone.
The challenge
Every year, managers at DBW are asked what training would help them most in their roles.
Neurodiversity was consistently highlighted, with many managers recognising that while there was a strong commitment to inclusion, they lacked confidence and specialist knowledge to provide the right support.
DBW identified the need for a structured approach that would not only raise awareness but also equip managers and colleagues with practical tools to recognise strengths, understand diverse needs and embed inclusive practices into everyday working life.
To address this, DBW partnered with AP Cymru, a neurodiversity charity and Super Wellness, their wellbeing partner, to deliver a comprehensive training programme.
What did the organisation do?
DBW took a phased and intentional approach to building neurodiversity awareness across the organisation.
The first step was delivering specialist training for line managers. These sessions provided a deep dive into the seven most common neurodivergent conditions and how they may present in the workplace.
Managers developed a stronger understanding of neurodifferences, learned how to provide effective support and gained insight into harnessing the unique strengths of neurodivergent colleagues. This marked an important step towards creating a more fully inclusive working environment.
DBW then introduced a general neurodiversity awareness session, open to all colleagues. The focus was on building shared understanding, challenging misconceptions and encouraging open and honest conversations. Engagement was high, with colleagues actively participating and sharing personal experiences.
To embed knowledge and support more deeply, DBW trained specific groups, including People & Development, Mental Health First Aiders and the Vulnerable Customer Support group, to become Neurodiversity Ambassadors. This training was developed and delivered by neurodivergent people, ensuring authenticity and insight drawn directly from lived experience.
The results
The neurodiversity training programme has already had a significant and positive impact across DBW. One of the most powerful outcomes has been that is has really helped open up conversations around neurodiversity. For example, one colleague recognised their own neurodivergent traits and is now seeking a diagnosis, while receiving appropriate support in the workplace.
Managers report feeling more confident and proactive in offering support, helping colleagues to perform at their best. The introduction of trained Neurodiversity Ambassadors has strengthened internal support networks and clearly demonstrates DBW’s commitment to neurodiversity in the workplace.
Quote from training partner:
“The commitment you collectively showed to further develop your understanding and acceptance of the neurodivergent community shone through.” – AP Cymru
Top tip for other employers
DBW learned that workplace adjustments can and should be made even if someone does not yet have a formal diagnosis. Simple changes can make a big difference, such as sharing agendas in advance or providing written summaries after meetings.
Having access to expert partners has also been vital. Occupational health services, along with AP Cymru, have provided valuable advice and guidance, reinforcing the importance of working with trusted organisations who can offer specialist support.