Around 15–20% of people in the UK are neurodivergent; that’s around 13 million people who may be under-represented in your workforce.
But here’s the good news: businesses which embrace neurodiversity don’t just do the right thing; they can also reap rewards!
At Seetec, we recognise that no two people are the same. We promote, support, and celebrate everyone’s unique differences.
Every neurodivergent person has a unique profile and an individual pattern of strengths and challenges.
That’s why we take neurodiversity seriously; for our colleagues, our customers, and for employers wishing to recruit and retain a diverse and inclusive workforce.
We can help you recruit and retain a diverse team and offer guidance in ways you can support your employees and realise their unique potential.
We’ll also help you to sign up to be a 💻Disability Confident employer, introduce you to great candidates who are pre-screened, trained and ready to work, and help you to create an inclusive workforce.
Our community interest company, Pluss, also offers support and programmes aimed at helping neurodivergent people.
Whether you’re new to this, or already on the journey, here are 10 compelling business reasons to embrace neurodiversity:
Boost innovation with diverse thinking
Neurodivergent employees often have unique cognitive strengths, such as out-of-the-box thinking, exceptional problem-solving skills, and high attention to detail.
Embracing these strengths allows companies to harness innovative solutions that others might overlook.
Attract and retain top talent
Offering an inclusive environment – where neurodivergent employees feel valued – boosts your company’s attractiveness as an employer, especially to younger, diverse generations who prioritise inclusion.
Research by Ivanti shows that 80% of employees prefer flexible work arrangements, which many neurodivergent individuals require, helping you keep top talent engaged.
Reduce absenteeism and improve employee productivity
Neurodivergent individuals often face additional challenges in traditional work environments, from sensory sensitivities to mental health concerns.
However, with the right adjustments, like flexible hours or remote work options, you can reduce stress and anxiety, helping neurodivergent employees thrive and maintain consistent productivity.
Increase your competitive edge
The growth of neurodivergence in the workforce presents an opportunity to unlock new perspectives.
Neurodivergent employees often possess strengths such as attention to detail, hyper-focus, creativity, and unique problem-solving.
By supporting these strengths, businesses can outpace competitors who don’t fully utilise their diverse talent.
Enhance team collaboration and company morale
By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, businesses can ensure that neurodivergent employees feel heard, respected, and part of the team.
This not only enhances their individual contributions but also strengthens team dynamics and overall morale.
Address the skills shortage and future-proof your work place
With an increasing skills gap in industries like technology, healthcare, and engineering, employers who tap into the neurodivergent talent pool can gain a competitive advantage.
Neurodivergent people bring unique skill sets, often excelling in technical roles, data analysis, and engineering positions.
Support mental health and wellbeing across the work place
Neurodivergent employees may face mental health challenges such as anxiety or depression.
Offering mental health support, such as access to counselling, therapy, and mental health days, creates a safer and more comfortable workplace.
Elevate your employer brand
A business that supports neurodiversity demonstrates its commitment to social responsibility and equality.
This not only enhances your reputation but also positions your brand as a forward-thinking, inclusive company that values all employees.
Supporting neurodivergence can enhance your reputation, particularly with younger generations who prioritise social values and inclusivity when choosing where to work.
This can result in more job applications and a stronger employer brand.
See out story about the Better Business Act
Create a positive impact on employee engagement
When employees feel supported and understood, they’re more likely to be engaged in their work.
Providing neurodivergent employees with the right adjustments, such as tailored job roles or flexible working conditions, makes them feel valued and empowered to perform at their best.
Enhance company diversion and inclusion
Supporting neurodiversity is an essential part of building a more diverse and inclusive workforce.
Neurodivergent individuals bring different ways of thinking, problem-solving, and approaching challenges, creating a more robust and adaptable organisation.
Take a look at the video at the bottom of this page, produced by a neurodivergent employee who wants to share some tips with employers.
The Bottom Line:
Neurodivergent employees can bring huge value to your business, if you create the space for them to thrive.
It’s not about lowering standards or making big changes; it’s about recognising talent that’s already out there and giving it the support it needs.
👉 Inclusive workplaces perform better. They innovate faster, retain staff longer, and build stronger teams. And by welcoming neurodivergent talent, you can do the same.
🔗 Want to learn more?
Check out Mind’s tips on mental health at work.
Seetec can help you in so many ways.
If you would like more information, 📝 please get in touch.
