an important aspect of many accounting or payroll tasks is recognising when something deviates from the norm. Recent figures indicate that approximately 4% of the population has ADHD, 10% has dyslexia, and 1-2% are autistic. But there are clear indications that there is more to be done to make everyone feel included. Autistica’s recent Neurodiversity Employer’s Index Market Insights Report (December 2024) provides a comprehensive overview of the workplace experience of neurodivergents. Surveying 118 UK companies representing 10 sectors and 6,512 employees, 2,241 of whom were neurodivergent. The findings concluded that, despite almost a third (29%) experiencing discrimination in the workplace, only 30% of businesses surveyed had a clear strategy or goals around neurodivergence in place. It’s no surprise then that often people don’t want to talk about their neurodiversity or disclose it to employers. As not all employees will disclose their condition, and masking can be exhausting, employers should consider making any workplace adjustments available generally, rather than specifically for those who make a formal diagnosis known.
for supportive measures and inclusive environments to help neurodivergents thrive. By sharing my journey, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals and to encourage workplaces to become more inclusive and supportive of neurodivergent individuals. Embracing neurodiversity is not only a matter of fairness and inclusion, but also a strategic advantage that can lead to increased innovation and overall workplace satisfaction. Research has shown that teams with neurodiverse employees are more productive than teams without, and neurodiverse environments boost team morale. The impact of neurodiversity in the workplace Neurodiversity brings unique strengths and perspectives to the workplace. Neurodivergent people often possess exceptional problem-solving skills, creativity, and attention to detail. However, they may also face challenges such as difficulties with communication, social interactions, and sensory sensitivities. Understanding and addressing these challenges is crucial for fostering an inclusive work environment. For example, many people with autism excel at pattern recognition, and
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ISSUE 9 GLOBAL PAYROLL MAGAZINE
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