Tuesday 9th September; 9.30am to 10.45am
Virtual Workshop
Neurodiversity encompasses a range of cognitive differences, including autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia & ADHD. These conditions bring unique perspectives, creativity, and problem-solving abilities to the workplace, offering real value to organizations that embrace neuro-inclusion. With an increasing number of neurodivergent students entering universities and applying for internships, placements, and jobs, it’s essential for employers to understand how to attract, support, and nurture this talent.
This workshop is designed to give participants a practical understanding of neurodiversity, equipping them with the knowledge to create an inclusive early years recruitment process and workplace environment. We’ll begin by exploring the concept of neurodiversity and the distinct strengths that neurodivergent individuals can bring before moving on to cover best practices for inclusive recruitment. This includes guidance on creating job descriptions that attract neurodivergent candidates, adapting interview processes to minimize barriers, and ensuring that the recruitment experience is supportive and accessible.
The session will also address how to support neurodivergent employees in the workplace. From effective onboarding practices to workplace adjustments that foster development and productivity, we’ll discuss what neurodivergent employees need to feel valued and empowered in their roles.
We will also be joined by Careers Advisers who specialize in supporting neurodivergent students through the job application and interview process. These advisers will share valuable insights into the challenges neurodivergent students face, the types of support they seek from employers, and the strategies that can help them succeed during recruitment and beyond. Additionally, neurodivergent students themselves will offer personal perspectives on applying for jobs and accessing support, providing a comprehensive look at the journey from education to employment.
This workshop will be invaluable for those responsible for recruiting and developing early careers talent and ensuring that their processes are inclusive and appropriate support is provided.
Speakers
Melissa Bramley
Melissa is an Employability Adviser at the University of Kent, where she supports students from widening participation backgrounds, including many who identify as having a disability. She has a particular interest in mental health, neurodivergence, and empowering students to overcome perceived barriers to employment. Melissa has two sons, one of which has a formal autism diagnosis, and Melissa personally identifies as Autistic/ADHD, though she does not currently have an official diagnosis. This lived experience further informs her empathetic and insightful approach to supporting neurodivergent students.
Before transitioning into Higher Education, Melissa held roles in Graduate Recruitment and Development within major corporate organisations spanning engineering, energy, and telecommunications. She brings extensive expertise in designing end-to-end assessment and selection processes and has coached numerous young professionals throughout their graduate programmes and early careers.
Hiral Shah
Hiral is the Early Careers Recruitment Manager at Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer where she leads the design and delivery of inclusive early talent strategies. With a strong focus on accessibility and equity, she is passionate about creating recruitment experiences that empower neurodiverse students to succeed from application through to onboarding.
She has played a key role in shaping programmes that support diverse thinking and foster a culture of belonging for early careers talent.
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.
