How Safehands is Celebrating Neurodiversity in Care

“Neurodiversity may be every bit as crucial for the human race as biodiversity is for life in general. Who can say what form of wiring will prove best at any given moment?” – Harvey Blume

In today’s ever-changing world, the value of neurodiversity in the workplace is gaining recognition and appreciation. However, research shows that the unemployment rate for people with autism is a shocking 22%, meaning there’s still work to be done. 

So, how can care providers embrace neurodiversity at work? We caught up with Matthew Llewelyn, our dedicated Care & Recruitment Coordinator, to discuss how Safehands are championing neurodiversity in the workplace. We also include some simple steps you can implement to help foster a more inclusive environment.

What is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity is a non-medical term that describes the differences in the ways people’s brains work. This includes people with autism, attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, dyspraxia and other neurological conditions.

The neurodiversity movement was established during the 1990s, which aimed to increase acceptance and inclusion of all people, regardless of their neurological differences. The general gist is that there’s no “correct” way for the brain to function. Instead, the different ways in which people respond to the world should be celebrated and encouraged.

How is Safehands Championing Neurodiverse Employees?

Here at Safehands, we are committed to promoting diverse and inclusive workplaces for all care workers.

Within our current application process, we ask neurodiverse candidates if they require any form of reasonable adjustments to help support them in their new role. We use straightforward speech when communicating, preventing misinterpretations which could cause an adverse response for the individual in question.

We also take the time to understand any conditions a candidate may have and how we can best support them. This ensures our approach is specifically tailored to the individual’s wants and needs. If a candidate chooses to share information regarding their condition, we will share similar experiences or coping tactics. These are usually accepted graciously.

Throughout the process, we constantly remind the candidate that it is perfectly fine to require processing time. It is also acceptable to ask for questions to be reworded or repeated. This reassurance prevents them from feeling anxious or stressed, helping to prepare them for a rewarding career in care.

What are the Benefits of Hiring Neurodiverse Employees?

Employing neurodiverse individuals helps to foster a more inclusive, empathetic and supportive workplace culture. A neurodiverse workforce better reflects the diverse patient population, leading to more culturally competent and empathetic care. Employers can tap into a diverse range of skills and talent, including:

Enhanced Empathy & Understanding

Many neurodiverse individuals have personal experiences that enable them to foster deep empathy and understanding. This naturally empathetic approach helps build strong relationships with an awareness of individual struggles and emotions, translating into more compassionate patient care.

Innate Creativity & Problem Solving

Neurodiverse employees often possess a high level of creativity, which is invaluable within care work. Such individuals will be highly skilled at finding solutions to daily client challenges and developing engaging activities. These will also excel at creating care plans that better meet the specific needs and preferences of each individual.

Strong Attention to Detail & Routine

Neurodiverse employees, particularly autistic people, often thrive in environments where attention to detail and following an established routine are critical. This could be demonstrated via exceptional management of care tasks such as medication schedules, daily routines, and detailed documentation. This natural ability to maintain consistency and structure can help enhance the overall quality and reliability of care provided.

How Can Care Providers Attract Neurodiverse Talent?

1. First and foremost, don’t fall at the first hurdle with your job advert and application process. Keep it simple!
2. Simplified application forms are easier to complete and will allow you to attract more diverse applications. Use straightforward language, issue clear instructions, and minimise the number of required fields. Avoid jargon and highlight the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
3. I’d strongly recommend considering an option that allows candidates to submit their CV without needing to fill in any forms. QR codes linking to an application page can simplify the process, whilst accepting video or audio applications can be hugely beneficial for both parties.
4. At the interview stage, opting for skills and competency-based assessments will allow you to directly evaluate a candidate’s abilities. These could include practical tasks or job simulations relevant to the role. Traditional interviews can be daunting, and may not be the best way to allow a neurodiverse individual to truly shine.

Once you have recruited, simple adaptations can be made in the working environment to allow neurodivergent individuals to thrive. These could include:

• Offering flexible shift patterns. Some may prefer regular schedules whilst others may require flexibility. Therefore, it’s vitally important to offer a variety of shift patterns.
• Providing quiet areas for working and breaks. This can help to minimise sensory and overload and overstimulation, fostering a healthier neurodivergent community.
• Using clear and concise communication methods. Providing written/video instructions and visual aids can help neurodiverse individuals process information better. 

Above all, it’s important to remember that no two neurodiverse people are the same! I highly recommend speaking with your neurodiverse employees to better understand their experiences and which adaptations work best for them.

Whether you’re looking for a new, exciting role in care or wish to attract more neurodiverse employees, Safehands Healthcare can help! Get in touch with one of our friendly team members at info@safehandsrecruitment.co.uk to discuss your requirements today.