Being a Neuro Inclusive workplace
Being a neuro-inclusive workplace helps employees reach their full potential. 1 in 7 people in the UK are neurodivergent,so it is important that your business creates an inclusive and welcoming environment for all of its employees. Inclusivity is essential for trust within a company to flourish, spark innovation and protect their employees wellbeing.
The most common neurodiverse conditions employers may encounter are Autism, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia. They can present themselves as challenges with communication, social interactions and attention span. However, reports suggest that neurodiverse teams can be 30% more productive than their neurotypical colleagues, as they are able to offer unique points of view and ideas that may not have been presented previously.
Neurodiversity means employees may take on information differently. Employers may need to use more inclusive approaches to communication, instructions, and feedback. Without clear communication employees could experience anxiety or stress before a project has even begun. Consider these ways to support and create safe spaces for your whole team.
Psychological Safety
It is imperative that your organisation creates a feeling of psychological safety. Employees should feel comfortable to speak up, ask questions and propose new ideas, with the knowledge and trust that their voice will be respected and listened to. Train employees and management on how to curate and maintain a safe environment built on confidence and nurturing of their teams.
When employees feel psychologically safe, with an emphasis on neuro inclusion, they are more likely to raise valid concerns without worrying about the reaction or consequences that neurodiverse employees may not always understand or be able to process.
Be diligent
A Workplace Needs Assessment can help employers recognise what changes can be implemented to ensure psychological safety of the whole team. The assessment provides the knowledge needed to make practical adjustments and help create a safer, more inclusive environment where everyone can perform at their best.
Protect with policy
A DEI policy outlines an organisation’s commitment to encouraging diversity, ensuring equity, and inclusion. Make sure you are setting the standards for behaviour, and protect your employees’ protected characteristics. Not only will it provide security for your team, it will promote fairness and equal opportunity.
Communication is key
Everyone deserves to be understood. Make sure that your employees understand how to communicate successfully and respectfully with their neurodivergent colleagues. Some employees may struggle with written tasks, or find it difficult to work out what needs to be done when assignments are just verbalised. Take the time to get to know how each employee works, and what adaptations they may require to ensure they can do their job to the best of their abilities. Pass this knowledge onto all employees, to remove any barriers or possibilities of miscommunication.
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If you want to know more about how to protect your neurodivergent employees, reach out to us today for more information.
