Employers are facing many challenges in the current economic climate, with rising costs, high staff turnover and limited recruitment options available.
Therefore it has never been more important to have a happy, healthy and productive workforce.
One avenue that more businesses can explore and embrace to improve their growth and success is with being an inclusive employer.
Worcestershire as a county, has already made great strides into supporting employers to be more inclusive, having launched the Inclusive Worcestershire Leaders (IWL) programme back in 2024. Now IWL has a membership of over 45 local businesses of varying sizes who are embracing and leading the way with inclusive practices.
However there are still more employers that can be supported on this journey and the research into neurodiversity speaks for itself.
Neurodiversity affects up to 20% of the worldwide population, with diagnoses rising sharply in recent years. Alongside this, research by the UK Government has concluded that organisations that embrace neurodiversity often see productivity boosts in some areas ranging between 45%-145%. (MyDisabilityJobs) (Buckland Review of Autism Employment)
These benefits represent a real opportunity for Worcestershire businesses to embrace neurodiversity and implement new approaches to better support all of their staff members, and as a result, boost their business growth and opportunity for success.
To help local businesses, the Worcestershire Growth Hub, Herefordshire Growth Hub, WorkWell, Worcestershire County Council & Herefordshire Council have joined forces to run an event focused on neurodiversity and how employers can ensure they staff are supported.
The free event, taking place at The Abbey Hotel in Great Malvern, on Thursday 6 November will allow attendees will hear from expert speakers, gain practical tips they can implement within their businesses and connect with other local businesses on the same journey.
This is a great opportunity for employers in Herefordshire & Worcestershire to find out more about supporting their neurodiverse staff, creating a happier, healthier and more productive workforce.
