Neurodiversity in the workplace, why is it important?

It is estimated that around 1 in 7 people are neurodivergent, meaning that they learn information and process this in a different way to others. To people employed in the UK, this likely means that most of us are working alongside at least one individual who has a neurodiverse condition, such as Dyslexia, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), or Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC).

Empowering and supporting neurodiversity in the workplace benefits not only the individual, but often the team around them and the people they work with. Alongside some of the challenges these conditions may bring, there are a number of key strengths, for example:

●      Individuals with Dyslexia can be highly creative and skilled at thinking outside of the box, and therefore may excel at developing novel solutions to problems;

●      Individuals with ADHD are able to hyper-focus on tasks and can often make decisions quickly;

●      Individuals with ASC can be remarkably knowledgeable in their area of interest, and very analytical in their work.

How could you be supported?

At Lexxic we offer a range of assessments, including workplace needs assessments. This involves observing the employee and speaking with them about their job role, and the challenges they face at work. The assessment enables us to make recommendations of reasonable adjustments that could be put into place to support the individual, including coaching, assistive software, and strategies and techniques that can be implemented.

Awareness sessions are also a great way for a Line Manager or team to gain further understanding of a condition and learn about the practical things that they could do to support an individual in their role.

If you want to learn more about how Lexxic could support you or your employees at work, we’d love to hear from you. Follow us on LinkedIn, visit our website, or email us on enquiry@lexxic.com

By Sarah Short, Assistant Psychologist at Lexxic