THRIVE

Neurodivergent employees often face unrecognised challenges and a lack of awareness among stakeholders in workplace settings.

This project engages with neurodivergent employees – whether formally diagnosed or self-identifying – to map their challenges and develop effective strategies and adjustments to overcome barriers.

This approach ensures that practical solutions are grounded in the real-life experiences of neurodivergent individuals across diverse work environments.

Neurodivergent employees: get involved with THRIVE

We recently launched a survey, inviting neurodivergent people in the UK to share their insights into their experiences at work.

In particular, we want to know whether your neurodivergence costs you time at work, and to what extent your employer accommodates your needs. You do not need a formal diagnosis to take part. 

Key project outcomes:

• Quantitative survey assessing the productivity benefits of properly accommodating neurodivergent employees. The survey will explore the impact of reasonable accommodations on overall job performance. It will evaluate employees’ awareness of what is available and any barriers to obtaining necessary workplace accommodations.
• One-on-one interviews with employees gathering insights into their lived experiences of disability policy implementation. This will involve identifying barriers they face, evaluating the effectiveness of existing policies, and documenting strategies or workplace adaptations they have used, including those deemed helpful or ineffective.
• Training and targeted resources for employees and educators to help ensure they have the skills necessary to effectively support neurodivergent individuals.
• One-month consultation on the developed guidance, actively engaging with the UK Young Academy and stakeholders to gather feedback and ensure that all views are represented. The guidance will be refined to reflect diverse perspectives.
• Information sharing and targeted education for employers. This project aims to support neurodivergent employees in realising their full potential and increase the recruitment of neurodivergent talent across all sectors.

NEXT STAGES

In the coming months, the UK Young Academy will also conduct one-on-one interviews to engage neurodivergent employees, whether formally diagnosed or self-identifying.

The interviews aim to capture first-hand accounts of interactions with workplace policies and adaptations.

If you would like to speak to a member of staff about getting involved in this project, please email us at enquiries@ukyoungacademy.org