A person we support drawing a plan with a pencil in his left hand

Wellbeing makes all the difference – seven ways we support neurodiversity

Approximately 15% of the global adult population are dyslexic, 10% are dyspraxic, 4.4% are ADHD, and 1-2% are autistic.  

ADHD, autism, dyspraxia, and dyslexia all fall within the spectrum of neurodivergence. neurodivergence is not an affliction or something to be cured. Neurodivergence makes someone the person they are, neuro-differences make us unique.

We know it can feel counter-intuitive to call someone autistic.

However, the #ActuallyAutistic movement is campaigning for the term “autistic person” to be used proudly, rather than as something to feel shame about, whereas the terms “person with autism” or “person who experiences autism” sounds like an affliction.

It is, of course, essential we listen to autistic individuals first and foremost and show them our support.

Person of colour that we support at their laptop wearing headphones

Whilst keeping in mind that:

“When you have met one autistic person, you have met one autistic person.” 

So, if the person in question prefers “person with autism,” you’ll see us use that term. We are all different, and that’s okay. So what terminology do you prefer?

We actively encourage neurodivergent applicants and a diverse culture which means that we:

1. Encourage and embrace differences

We want many different people to work for us because we value the knowledge it brings; we are an inclusive employer that rates highly on Indeed and Glassdoor for culture.

2. Have mentor support

We know proper support makes all the difference, so we ensure you have the support and person you need to thrive.

3. Have one-page profiles 

If you work for us, you will have a one-page profile that states what’s important to you and how you like to be treated at work.

4. Flexible interviewing 

If you get an interview and need adjustments, consider it done.

5. Easy read policies 

For important documents such as job descriptions and meeting agendas.

6. Support with assistive tech

Including Read & Write Gold & Dragon Naturally Speaking, which help with reading and writing, respectively

7. Promote better meeting practice 

Opening rounds, closing summaries, and inviting you to contribute in more comfortable ways, such as joining online meetings without using your camera, for example.

If you think you might like to work for us then you can see our current vacancies here.

The Dimensions group (which Discovery is a part of) has been officially accredited as one of the UK’s Best Workplaces by the Great Place to Work Institute for two years running. Additionally, this year, we received a “Wellbeing” award and a “Great Workplace for Women” award.