What does the future of neurodiversity in business look like?

Neurodiversity (ND) could be a competitive advantage for businesses globally. Yet, many are missing out.

That is changing. Across the UK, businesses are making efforts to unlock the benefits and strengths of neurodiversity in the workplace. Today, we shine the spotlight on one of our corporate members @Barclays and its cutting-edge Glasgow campus, an office space created with neuroinclusion in mind.

The challenge

Office environments can be extremely challenging for the ND community. In fact, our offices are often only reactively customised via the adjustments/accommodations process. Ask any ND person and they will tell you that it is daunting for them to disclose their needs. In addition, the lack of equitable access to diagnosis leaves some employees without the ability to request the adjustments which they need.

Have you ever asked yourself why we are all working in identically looking office environments, set at the same temperature and with the same noise level? ND people thrive in conditions that can be adjusted for their own needs. This is not the case, as ways of working in the current office environment is a challenge for up to 20% of neurodivergent people according to a report from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.

Addressing fear and stigma

Barclays are leading by example to enable ND employees to thrive at work. The company has brought ND expertise into the heart of the decision-making process for the building's design. Some of Barclays’ key considerations for the workspace include lighting, sound environment, colours, textures, accessibility via the doors, signage and fire escapes, and the overall design of the office.

During our visit, we were impressed that employees have the autonomy to adjust their physical environment by default easily with movement breaks and stimming actively supported by the enduring culture. There is space for sensory/movement breaks with options such as individual room temperature controls and bookable quiet rooms, as well as the ever-popular velvet booths and biophilic (nature) elements.

For auditory sensitivity, Barclays uses acoustic panels on the ceiling, walls, and furniture. Tactile and soft furniture and walls are there for tactile sensory seekers. For vestibular and proprioceptive regulation, we were very impressed by the presence of swings! Finally, for light sensitivity, there are lighting and felt covers over AV screens which reduce glare and harshness.

Finally, in addition to building design, Barclays puts inclusivity at the heart of its Glasgow campus. Its ways of working includes more flexibility for where employees work and individual choices, like using ear defenders.

Unlock success for all

Each of NiB’s members plays a crucial role in not only raising the awareness of Neurodivergent people in companies, but also how they can add value as a meaningful part of the team. However, it takes commitment to create an environment that unlocks benefits and strengths of neurodiversity in the workplace.

Barclays’ Glasgow campus is a great example of businesses putting ND at the heart of their operations through the company’s building’s design and its office culture. We applaud the fantastic work that Barclays has done with this campus.

However, we are calling for more global businesses to put ND in the driving seat. By being Neuroinclusive, businesses will benefit economically as well as help build fulfilling careers for neurodivergent folk.