Tuesday 3rd June; 9.30am to 10.45am
Virtual Workshop
Studies suggest that around 15-20% of the global population is neurodivergent, encompassing conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more. Neurodiversity in the workplace is gaining recognition, yet there remains a significant employment gap for neurodivergent individuals who often face substantial barriers to employment. Despite many having valuable skills that are in high demand, some estimates indicate that 80% of adults who are autistic are either unemployed or underemployed.
This interactive workshop will begin by examining the importance of neuro-inclusivity in recruitment and the benefits of attracting neurodivergent talent. Delegates will learn practical strategies for creating accessible job descriptions, adapting interview processes, and building an inclusive recruitment journey that minimizes barriers for neurodivergent candidates. We’ll also discuss how to effectively engage neurodivergent employees, addressing topics such as clear communication and workplace adjustments that can support different cognitive needs.
Participants will also have the chance to hear from several employers who will share their experiences in building neuro-inclusive workplaces. These speakers will discuss key lessons learned, critical success factors, and potential pitfalls to avoid, providing practical insights that can help guide your organization’s approach to neurodiversity.
This workshop will be invaluable for those wishing to understand more about neurodiversity, and how to support neurodivergent individuals both during the recruitment process and in the workplace. It will equip participants with actionable tools and knowledge to make neuro-inclusivity a standard part of their organizational culture.
Speakers
Alison Matthews
Alison is a consultant in Herbert Smith Freehills' corporate insurance team, where she has worked for over 19 years. Her children, now aged 22 and 25, are both autistic.
While continuing her role as a lawyer, Alison became co-chair of HSF's disability network when it was launched. A few years later, she stepped down from that role to focus on increasing understanding within the firm of autism and on creating a more inclusive environment for autistic employees. Alison now co-leads HSF's Neurodiversity Working Group in London which supports implementation of HSF's global Valuable 500 commitment "Championing the recruitment and retention of neurodivergent people". She is particularly proud that HSF is a founding member of the Legal Neurodiversity Network which supports the sharing of good practice amongst law firms and the creation of a more neuro-inclusive legal profession.
Tom Norrish
Tom is the Neurodiversity Lead for Europe, the Middle East and Africa at JPMorgan Chase, working from their Bournemouth office. He is responsible for making sure that all aspects of an employee’s experience are neuroinclusive. Tom delivers the firm’s Autism at Work programming in region, so all members of the community have the supports they need to thrive in the workplace.
During his 25 year tenure with the firm, Tom has held a broad range of roles, to include Business Operations, Service Management and Technology. As a member of the neurodivergent community, Tom is passionate about driving neuroinclusive practices for employees in the workplace and developing external programming for neurodivergent students, and emerging talent of all ages.
MyPlus Employers’ Club members are entitled to 8 complimentary places. Non-members may purchase places at a price of £95 + VAT. Contact lise@myplusconsulting.com to purchase places or to find out more about Employers’ Club membership.
MyPlus run a variety of these types of events for employers. For details of the different types visit our events page. For details of forthcoming Employers’ Club events taking place visit our events calendar page.
