Business Disability Forum launches new neurodiversity guidance

The Business Disability Forum (BDF) has launched new guidance to provide practical advice to employers on how to support neurodivergent colleagues in the workplace.

Supporting Neurodiversity in the Workplace: A Practical Guide for Managers provides tips and advice for line managers, helping them build the confidence to start conversations, understand individual needs and to identify and put in place workplace adjustments, so neurodivergent employees can thrive.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), autism, dyscalculia, dyslexia, development co-ordination disorder (DCD) and Tourette’s syndrome are some of the conditions associated with neurodivergence and mentioned in the guide, although there is no definitive list.

In addition, BDF has also published a guide to language around neurodiversity to help organisations develop their own language and communications policies. 

Natalie Leister, head of practice and the advice service at BDF, said: “Neuroinclusive businesses are better businesses. Workforces benefit from greater diversity but there is still a lot of misunderstanding about what neurodiversity in the workplace means and how to meet the needs of neurodivergent colleagues.

“Supporting neurodiversity in the workplace starts with understanding neurodiversity itself and the barriers that neurodivergent colleagues can experience, knowing how to spot the signs that someone may need support, and being clear on what support can be offered.

“We know that line managers have a pivotal role to play in discussing and securing adjustments that can significantly impact the day-to-day experiences of their neurodivergent employees. We hope our guide will equip managers to hold those conversations and to work with colleagues to put in place the right support.”