More than a third of workers say their employer is failing to properly support neurodivergent staff, according to a new survey.
The study by workplace experts Acas found 35% of employees believe their employer is ineffective at training managers to support neurodiversity at work.
The survey of 1,000 workers across Great Britain was carried out by YouGov.
Just 32% said their organisation effectively trains managers to make reasonable adjustments for neurodivergent colleagues. A further 32% said they did not know how effective their employer was, suggesting many workplaces lack awareness of the issue.
Neurodiversity describes the natural differences in how people’s brains work and process information. Common examples include autism, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia.
Some neurodivergent people do not consider themselves disabled, but they may still be protected under the Equality Act, which requires employers to make reasonable adjustments at work.
Julie Dennis, Head of Inclusive Workplace Strategy and Policy at Acas, said:
“These stats show a potentially worrying lack of knowledge when it comes to supporting neurodivergent colleagues, and how to put support at the centre of workplace policies and training.
“Supporting neurodivergent staff can be simple and cost-effective, and it should be integral to any business. When everyone is given the chance to thrive, every business can too.”
Acas estimates that around 15% to 20% of adults experience and process the world differently, meaning many workplaces include neurodivergent employees.
The organisation is urging employers to improve awareness and training so that staff feel comfortable discussing neurodiversity and asking for support.
Acas advises businesses to train line managers, build understanding across organisations and work with neurodivergent staff when creating workplace policies.