The workplace

Neurodivergent young people and adults can sometimes find a workplace environment difficult, and may need support in different ways to help them thrive.

Moving into a new workplace can be particularly challenging for some. For example, autistic people can sometimes struggle to adapt to change, and the corporate world may not always be kind, which can leave many anxious and confused about how to navigate it.

But neurodivergent people bring an incredible set of talents to the workplace, and employers are becoming increasingly aware of the need to support neurodivergent employees and make reasonable adjustments that mean they will benefit from a fully diverse workforce.

Read our guide for employers on how to support neurodivergent people at work.

Job hunting

Job hunting and finding work can be very overwhelming, but breaking the process down into smaller, more manageable steps may help.

  • Preparing your CV
    There are lots of great tools online to help with creating CVs (also known as Curriculum Vitaes) – search for ‘CV builder’ in Google. Hubs like Job Centres also have places you can meet with a worker who will help you in creating and adjusting your CV in a way that will be more applicable to the job.

  • Disability Confident employers
    The Disability Confident scheme helps employers recruit and retain great people. Organisations that display this badge on their website, in job adverts or on location have the resources upfront to help support those with disabilities in the workplace. This gives you the reassurance that the role you’re applying for is equipped with the tools to support those with disabilities in the workplace.

  • Seek advice in the right places
    Seeking a form of preparation support can help, whether that’s going to a Job Centre for advice, networking with professionals, or attending job seminars to speak with people from different professions if you’re unsure where to investigate or what to tackle first.

You can find helpful advice and signposting for neurodivergent job seekers in this University of Bristol article.

In Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire, the local authorities’ Local Offer pages guide you to sources of support and advice on how to identify your strengths, build your confidence and find the right role.

Starting a new job

Adapting to a new workplace environment can present particular challenges to some neurodivergent people.

In a recent article on ‘Neurodiversity in the workplace’ occupational health specialist Helena Brady states that ‘change and adaptation associated with new beginnings such as adjustment when entering the workforce could become an aggravating factor.’

Transitioning from school or university into work can be tough. This may be because people didn’t have access to resources due to late diagnosis or the lack of school support. Or, they may have enjoyed the routine and stability of the educational structure and struggle with the change of a new workplace.

Adjusting to the workplace is different for everyone. Many adapt well having routine and keeping busy but some may find it harder to adjust for many reasons. The peace of mind of knowing employers already have the means in place to support and look after you will be a relief, so look into the support that your employer has in place.

Thriving at work

In recent years there has been more support for those with neurodivergent conditions to access the workplace. New working practices such as flexible working and working from home have also proved helpful to some neurodivergent people.

The Equality Act of 2010 legally protects people from discrimination in the workplace and wider society.

Disclosing your disability to your employers opens a level of support that the employer is obligated by law to give you. This includes certain accommodations and reasonable adjustments that can be made depending on your job or your needs.

It’s a big move to open up about a disability and ask for help, so find someone who you can feel at ease with and comfortably discuss these next steps.

Certain jobs will work better for certain people. For example, some will thrive in retail environments because of the fast-paced, stimulating areas. But some may find this the worst kind of job and prefer a quiet place like a library or calmer office environment. In employment, working effectively comes with collaboration between worker and employer. That way both of you can find compromise and strategies that work for both parties.

The National Autistic Society website includes wide-ranging information on seeking work, including advice on the best steps to take in regards to disclosing your disability to an employer, as well as other resources.

“Employers need to support neurodivergent people to make a fully inclusive workplace a reality”

Jack

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