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"Embracing Neurodiversity: Building Inclusive Workplaces," hosted by Professor Nicola Martin and the Critical Autism and Disibilities Studies (CADS) Research Group at London South Bank University, aims to equip professionals with the knowledge and tools to create inclusive work environments for neurodivergent individuals. Over seven comprehensive sessions, participants will delve into key topics essential for understanding and supporting neurodiversity in the workplace.

This course will enable employers to implement sustainable working practices that enhance employee satisfaction and productivity while promoting equity and harmony in the workplace. By embracing neurodiversity and leveraging the strengths of neurodivergent individuals, organisations can create more innovative, dynamic, and inclusive work environments.

This course is suitable for employers looking to expand their knowledge of neurodiversity in the work environment, and would be highly beneficial to those seeking to create more equitable, diverse and inclusive workplace practices and values. 

Employees looking to equip themselves with the skills and knowledge to positively influence and thrive in a more inclusive, and diverse and equitable work environment will also find this highly valuable.  

The approach taken by CADS is strengths-based, focusing on the unique talents and contributions of neurodivergent individuals. The training is highly practical and addresses every aspect of the employment journey, from recruitment onwards. The goal is to help employers develop their understanding of neurodivergence and implement practical solutions that minimise the need for bespoke individual adjustments, thereby fostering an inclusive environment from the start.

The course will cover 7 key topics for building an inclusive work environment:

• Neurodivergence explained. Applying best practice at work, utilising universal design. 

This introductory session will define neurodivergence, including conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others. Participants will learn about the principles of universal design and how to apply them in the workplace to accommodate diverse cognitive and sensory needs.

• Good practice in recruitment based on universal design.

This session will focus on inclusive recruitment practices that attract and retain neurodivergent talent. Participants will explore strategies to design job postings, interviews, and selection processes that minimise bias and barriers.

• Neurodivergence for managers

This session will equip managers with the knowledge and skills to effectively support neurodivergent team members. Topics include communication strategies, performance management, and fostering an inclusive team culture.

• Neurodivergence for colleagues.

This session aims to educate all employees on neurodiversity, promoting understanding and collaboration. Participants will learn about the experiences of neurodivergent colleagues and how to create a supportive and inclusive work environment.

• Thriving as a neurodivergent employee. 

This session is designed for neurodivergent individuals, providing tools and strategies to navigate and thrive in the workplace. Topics include self-advocacy, leveraging strengths, and accessing workplace accommodations.

• Workplace mentoring with neurodivergent employees. 

This session will explore the role of mentoring in supporting neurodivergent employees. Participants will learn how to establish effective mentoring relationships that promote professional development and inclusion.

• Understanding The Buckland review on Autism and Employment and applying best practice at work.

The final session will focus on the findings and recommendations of The Buckland Review on Autism and Employment. Participants will learn how to apply these insights to create more inclusive workplaces.

Participants of this course will gain a transformative understanding of neurodivergence, recognising it as a valuable aspect of human diversity. They will develop the skills and knowledge necessary to create workplaces that not only value diversity but also actively work to eliminate barriers to success for neurodivergent individuals.

By the end of the course, participants will be equipped to:

• Reframe their perspective on neurodivergence, viewing it as a strength and asset.
• Implement principles of Universal Design to create accessible and accommodating workspaces.
• Adopt inclusive recruitment practices that attract and retain neurodivergent talent.
• Manage and support neurodivergent employees effectively, enhancing communication and performance management.
• Foster an inclusive team culture where all employees feel valued and supported.
• Ensure compliance with equalities legislation and understand best practices from current research.
• Develop customised strategies that can be applied in their specific organisational contexts
   

Professor Nicola Martin

Nicola is a neurodivergent academic and the primary principal investigator for CADS research, will lead the course. She will be supported by neurodivergent colleagues of all genders and in various employment roles associated with CADS, providing valuable insider perspectives.

London South Bank University (LSBU) hosts the Critical Autism and Disability Studies (CADS) research forum, which aims to address barriers to success in education and employment for neurodivergent individuals. The research, conducted by neurodivergent researchers, ensures practical and relevant findings and recommendations.
 

The course will be delivered through a combination of live sessions, presentations, and practical workshops, either in-person or virtually, depending on your organisation's preference.

The content is highly customisable and can be tailored to your specific organisational context.

Please get in touch with lsbushortcourses@lsbu.ac.uk to discuss your training requirements.

There is no formal assessment for this course. 

Upon completion of this course, participants will be eligible for CPD Standards Office points. 

For information on our policies (payment, cancellation, terms and conditions, etc.) visit our general information page.

If you have a question that we haven’t answered here, please contact lsbushortcourses@lsbu.ac.uk and we will respond to your query within 24 hours.