Neurodiversity in the Workplace

According to The Brain Charity, more than one million people in the UK have been diagnosed with a neurodiverse condition such as ADHD, dyslexia, autism, or dyspraxia. The fact that our brains work in different ways should be seen as an asset to an organisation, but employees with neurodiversity are still being overlooked at work and during recruitment processes.

When we consider diversity within a workforce, we should welcome the variety of ways we deal with information and our unique perceptions of the world. Just as we promote equality for physical disabilities and protected characteristics, we need to do the same for neurodiversity.

Understanding your Workforce

It’s been proven that employees who feel comfortable and welcomed at work are happier, more productive, and more likely to stay in their job. An important part of creating an inclusive workforce is to actively show that your company supports, promotes and celebrates diversity of every kind.

As attitudes have changed, so too have the techniques employers and recruiters can use to ensure equality among employees and candidates. At Marmion we use i3 Profiling, a personality assessment tool designed to ‘increase self-awareness and enable stronger relationships (team building)’.

By focusing on individual strengths rather than generic traits, tools such as these can help to bring workplace diversity to the forefront of management and recruitment processes. There are many sources of support available for employers, including this online guide from the CIPD

Types of Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity relates to the range of differences within the human brain and behavioural traits concerning attention, learning, sociability, mood, and other psychological functions. Current figures indicate that around one in seven (or nearly 15%) of adults in the UK are neurodivergent.

Dyspraxia is a common example of neurodiversity and should be supported in the workplace. Also referred to as Developmental Co-ordination Disorder (DCD), the condition affects movement, balance, and fine motor skills (such as writing). It has no known cause and can develop at any age.

To increase awareness and encourage greater inclusivity, Dyspraxia Week takes place annually. In 2021, the event took place from 4 ^th to 10th October. The Dyspraxia Foundation have a range of ways in which you can help raise both money and understanding, and it’s something we promote here at Marmion.

Supporting Inclusivity in Recruitment

ACAS, the CIPD and the NHS all have free information and resources on their websites.

As an ethical recruitment agency, our experienced consultants at Marmion are dedicated to helping employers and job seekers alike find the right roles and create stronger teams. Whether you need support with your next recruitment campaign, advice on finding a new job, or guidance on people management and workplace diversity, our experts have the knowledge and expertise you need.

Get in touch with us on 0113 332 0678 or email hello@wearemarmion.com.