Neurodiversity

Support for ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and other forms of neurodivergence

Neurodiversity refers to the different ways the brain can work and interpret information. It highlights that people naturally think about things differently. We have different interests and motivations and are naturally better at some things and poorer at others. Most people are neurotypical, meaning that the brain functions and processes information in the way society expects.

However, it is estimated that around 1 in 7 people (more than 15 per cent of people in the UK) are neurodivergent, meaning that the brain functions, learns and processes information differently. Neurodivergence includes:

  • Attention Deficit Disorders
  • Autism
  • Dyscalculia
  • Dyslexia
  • Dyspraxia
  • Epilepsy
  • Tourette's syndrome

We support the neurodiversity of all our staff and embrace the diverse range of minds that our organisation holds within it.  If you consider yourself to be neurodivergent, or want to support someone who is neurodivergent, you can talk to someone about support and adjustments you might need by contacting well at work.

Neurodiversity in the workplace webinar

For those of you who were unable to attend the webinar held recently in partnership with Exceptional Individuals, an organisation providing consulting, recruitment and employment support to employers and individuals with dyslexia, dyspraxia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (known as ADHD) and autism. You can watch a recording of the session. If you have any queries, please contact wellatwork@oxfordshire.gov.uk.

Types of support and adjustments:

Support offered by Oxfordshire County Council may involve reasonable adjustments to your working environment, working processes, specific software, or a referral to Access to Work who will assess your needs and make recommendations for supports to your employer.

Some supports that employees with neuro-divergent conditions may have include:

  • Sending papers in advance
  • Considering office space / noise / working from home
  • Use of headphones to block out background noise
  • Weekly check ins to discuss any questions and issues arising
  • Mentoring and coaching
  • Factoring in more time for information dense tasks
  • Obtaining a screen reader
  • Assistive software for computer
  • Additional resources e.g. Dictaphone
  • Referral to Access to Work - work-placed assessment process overview (pdf format, 95Kb)
  • Support in liaising with your manager around your needs

Neurodiversity Wellbeing Group

We have a neurodiversity wellbeing group and you can contact them via DAWN (disability and wellbeing network) or via WellatWork@oxfordshire.gov.uk.  The group welcomes everyone and is neuro inclusive. It aims to offer peer support, tips for wellbeing, support through challenges, feedback obstacles and celebrate the rich and diverse nature of employees and what they can offer as employees.

What to do if you suspect you have a neuro-difference?

  • Contact one of the organisations below who may be able to offer you more information
  • Speak to your GP who can refer you for an assessment
  • Speak to your manager or contact Well at work –  adjustments can be made on need not only diagnoses

See further information below on neuro-differences and links to support organisations and articles.

Neurodiversity

ADHD (Attention deficit hyperactivity disorders)

Autism

Dyscalculia

Dyslexia

Dyspraxia

Epilepsy

Tourette's syndrome