Inclusion of neurodivergence in the workplace has made progress, but there is still more work to do. Many neurodivergent individuals continue to experience stigma and barriers at work.
In fact, research by inclusive technology company, Texthelp, reveals that 61% of neurodivergent workers have experienced stigma at some point during their career. Furthermore, 34% have experienced difficulty in recruitment and interview processes, and 32% have experienced lack of career progression.
By considering neurodiversity in inclusion practices we can create a workplace where all workers can contribute and feel valued. It's not only the right thing to do, it’s also good for business. Companies that actively support neurodivergent employees are more likely to attract a more diverse talent pool, and have higher employee retention.
“Companies large and small have the ability to create positive change for themselves and their workforce by supporting a diverse range of people. Creating a workplace culture where all employees feel accepted and able to embrace and elevate their unique skills is not only good practice, it’s good for business." said Martin McKay, CEO of Texthelp.
Together with Jill Houghton, CEO of Disability:IN, Martin authored an industry report exploring the benefits of, and best practices for, creating a neuro-inclusive workplace. This includes 13 tips to improve neuro-inclusion across the full employee lifecycle. They also highlight results from Texthelp’s survey where 500 neurodivergent employees share common workplace barriers and explore inclusive practices they hope to see at work.
“The greatest resource we have is our people. Our culture starts inside by cultivating a diverse range of perspectives. We must promote and embrace diversity and provide all of the necessary resources to create a sense of belonging in the workplace and to improve equity and inclusion for all,” said Houghton.
To download the full report, visit Texthelp's website.