The case for action

Building neuroinclusive workplaces is essential for organisations seeking to strengthen workforce capability, drive innovation and ensure equitable access to meaningful work. Neurodivergent people bring valuable strengths – including creative problem solving, analytical and systems thinking, attention to detail and strong technical capability. Yet, neurodivergent people face some of the highest rates of unemployment and underemployment.

Research suggests that neuroinclusive strategies such as modifying sensory environments (e.g. noise, lighting), workplace flexibility (e.g. flexible start and finish times, flexible leave), and inclusive recruitment and retention practices (e.g. eliminating bias and focusing on job requirements) won’t only benefit people who disclose their neurodiversity, it will also enhance the workplace experience for all employees.1

Neuroinclusion in workplaces expands the talent pool for valuable skills and capabilities, boosts retention and morale, and builds fair, high performing workplaces where all employees can contribute their strengths and feel a greater sense of belonging.

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The content of this page was last updated in March 2026.

References

  1. Dr Melissa Scott et al., The Integrated Employment Success Tool (IEST): An Evidence-Based Guide for Employers of Autistic Adults (Autism CRC, 2021)
  2. Ernst & Young Global Ltd, EY Global Neuroinclusion at Work Study 2025, p.8.
  3. Ernst & Young Global Ltd, EY Global Neuroinclusion at Work Study 2025, 8.
  4. Elisabeth R. Silver et al., “Beyond the Business Case: Universally Designing the Workplace for Neurodiversity and Inclusion,” Industrial and Organizational Psychology 16, no. 1 (2023): 45–49, https://doi.org/10.1017/iop.2022.99.
  5. Thompson, E., and J. Miller. CIPD Neuroinclusion at Work Survey Report. Industry Survey Report. Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), 2024. https://www.cipd.org/globalassets/media/knowledge/knowledge-hub/reports/2024-pdfs/2024-neuroinclusion-at-work-report-8545.pdf.
  6. Creative Differences: A Handbook for Embracing Neurodiversity in the Creative Industries, Industry survey 2nd edition (Universal Music UK, 2020), 44, https://umusic.co.uk/Creative-Differences-Handbook.pdf.