Charity highlights need for LGBTQ+ and neurodiversity inclusion in workplaces
Productivity can increase by 30% in teams with neurodiverse staff
A Swindon charity is stressing the importance of creating safe workspaces for LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse people.
Swindon & Gloucestershire Mind say more open conversations between staff and employers are needed.
It is part of Swindon and Gloucestershire Mind's mindful employer scheme that aims to achieve better wellbeing in workplaces.
Yazmin Taylor, service lead for training and business at Swindon & Gloucestershire Mind, told Greatest Hits Radio: “It’s actually Pride Awareness Month and also Neurodiversity Pride Day in June. So while people are thinking about it more, we’d like to bring more attention to it but isn’t just something to do in a month or a day.
“These are things people are living with daily and that people should be proud of. We want to make sure that employers really embrace that and make the working environment suitable for every individual.
“Everyone should have some flexibility in their work life and to suit their needs.”
In partnership with Swindon Borough Council and Business West, the charity hosted a free event for employers earlier this week.
Titled Inclusive & Resilient Workplaces: Supporting LGBTQ+ & Neurodiversity, employers from the area had the opportunity to hear from neurodivergent professionals and inclusive employers.
“Rather than being rigid and, in terms of your processes, it’s being a bit more fluid. And it’s understanding that if you give that flexibility or praise people for their individuality, then you’re going to get really great success”, explained Ms Taylor.
She also stressed that understanding people “as individuals” and treating them “with respect” and as “you’d want to be treated” is crucial.
“Don’t make this something you do once a year as a tickbox exercise”, she added.
“Make sure that wellbeing is part of your culture every day.”
Recent research by Druthers Serach suggests that teams which include neurodivergent staff can be up to 30% more productive than purely neurotypical teams with different ways of thinking leading to an increase in innovation.
Councillor Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, said: “Creating inclusive and resilient workplaces is the right thing to do. We’re proud to support this important event, which will help employers across Swindon embrace the value of diversity and make practical changes that benefit both their teams and their organisations.
“Building a Fairer Swindon starts in our workplaces, and this is a brilliant opportunity for local employers to be part of that journey.”