Salisbury NHS Trust pledges support for neurodiverse staff

Awareness events have been held at the District Hospital

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 16th Apr 2024

An awareness day's been held at the Salisbury District Hospital site, to improve knowledge and provide strategies to support each other.

Neurodiversity encompasses those with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and other neurological variations, offering a wealth of creativity, innovation, and problem-solving abilities that are untapped in many organisations.

Thomas Henley, an autism advocate and Commonwealth Gold Medalist in Taekwondo, was the keynote speaker for the day.

Keynote speaker Thomas Henley during a neurodiversity awareness day at Salisbury District Hospital

It also included interactive discussions on managing everyday challenges, and staff from across the Trust sharing their lived experiences.

Judy Dyos, Chief Nursing Officer, and Executive Sponsor of the Network, said:

“We strive to create an environment where everyone can succeed and be their best selves. In today’s rapidly evolving workplace, embracing diversity is not just about recognising differences in race, gender, or culture; it's also about understanding and valuing the unique perspectives and abilities that neurodivergent individuals bring to our teams.”

As part of its inclusion commitments, Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust offers interview adjustments for candidates with autism to ensure a fair and comfortable recruitment process.

Health and social care staff at the Trust also complete mandatory learning disability and autism training.

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