Neurodiversity in the workplace

Employers can take steps to attract neurodivergent employees by ensuring job descriptions are clear and recruitment processes are accessible. Providing interview adjustments, such as extra time or advance questions, can also make a big difference. Offering clear expectations and directions for interviews helps create a welcoming environment for neurodivergent candidates.

Additional guidance:

• Acas’ Neurodiversity at Work report
• The Welsh Government’s Employers Guide to Employing Disabled People

Creating an inclusive workplace requires ongoing support for neurodivergent employees.

Employers can:

• Become a Disability Confident employer
• Provide neurodiversity training for managers
• Raise awareness among staff
• Offer workplace adjustments such as flexible working, assistive technology, and quiet spaces

Helpful tools include:

• DWP’s Health Adjustment Passport
• ADHD UK’s employer pack
• Civil Service Dyslexia & Dyspraxia Network toolkit

Employers can foster a more inclusive environment by implementing simple etiquette changes, such as:

• Offering quiet spaces and noise-cancelling headphones
• Allowing breaks during long meetings
• Keeping emails concise and only copying in relevant recipients to avoid overwhelming employees with unnecessary information

Pairing neurodivergent employees with a workplace ‘buddy’ can ease their transition into a new role. Larger organisations might also benefit from establishing staff networks that promote inclusivity and offer peer support.

For guidance on setting up staff networks, visit CIPD’s resource.