Workguide

Meaning of Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity refers to the different ways our brains process information and interact with the world around us.

Neurodiversity is used as a collective term for separate neurodevelopmental profiles such as:

• Autism
• ADHD
• Dyslexia
• Dyscalculia
• Dyspraxia
• Tourettes

Whilst each of those profiles have their own features, there is a degree of overlap between them, affecting such things as social interaction, attention, absorbing information, sensory processing, communication styles, spatial awareness.

Benefits of Neurodiversity

Employers understand there are benefits in the workplace from having neurodivergent staff.

Whilst neurodivergent individuals might experience challenges in some areas, they are also likely to be strong in other specialisms.

Rather than being ‘generalists’ it is common for neurodivergent people to be very skilled in specific areas at work. If an employer can tap into those specialisms and provide the right platform a neurodivergent worker can thrive in the workplace.

We also believe it is good business practice to embrace diversity because it adds broader experiences and perspectives in the workplace. An organisation’s effectiveness depends on the sum of its parts.

Is Neurodiversity a Disability?

Autism, ADHD, Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, and Tourette’s are highly likely to meet the definition of disability in UK employment law.

The Equality Act 2010 defines disability as:

a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on a person’s ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.

When considering neurodiversity Employment Tribunal cases will focus on impairments and barriers rather insisting there is a medical diagnosis.

As a result of this case law an employer must be mindful of their legal obligations in relation to neurodiversity in the workplace, such as:

• Making reasonable adjustments to practices and procedures to prevent neurodiversity discrimination at work
• Providing auxiliary aids (for example, computer software to help with Dyslexia)
• Ensuring there is no bullying or harassment related to neurodiversity in the workplace
• Avoiding neurodiversity discrimination in recruitment

If you wish to read more about Employment Tribunal cases that have considered neurodiversity please see our Resources page.