A survey found that young people believed a neurodivergent disorder could be a barrier to employment
- 40% believe that a neurodivergent disorder could prevent them from gaining employment or promotion
- 74% neurodiverse youth have felt uncomfortable at work
In a survey of over 1,000 young people in the UK, two fifths (40%) believed that being neurodivergent – often with conditions like ADHD and dyslexia – could be a barrier for gaining employment or receiving promotion at work.
BDO, a business and accounting advisory firm, commissioned the Young Minds Survey to get a snapshot of what young people think about the workplace and their career aspirations.
In the survey, it was found that nearly three-quarters (74%) felt out of place or different from their peers and colleagues at work or in university. Similar numbers (68%) of people with mental health issues have felt the same.
In the interviewing process, these beliefs and feelings of discomfort are prevalent. Over half of those who said they had a neurodivergent disorder (52%) wanted to hide or change that during an interview. The respondents also mentioned having a physical impairment, an accent or their sexuality.
Sarah Hillary, Partner and Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Lead, BDO, stated: “Whether they are already working or just starting out, this survey shows that our young people’s belief systems are still rooted in outdated workplace practices and opinions.
“Embracing diversity, including neurodiversity and all of our differences in the workplace, is not only a moral obligation — it benefits both employees and organizations.
We need to show young people entering the workplace that diversity of thought drives success and, by valuing our differences, we unlock a wealth of creativity and innovation. We must show the young workers entering the workforce that diversity in thought is important. By valuing differences we can unlock creativity and innovation .”
CASE STUDY
Alistair Doran is a BDO employee and the head of digital product management. He oversees the development and improvement of 40 digital products. Alistair was diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia as a child. He felt frustrated in school because he did not learn the same way his peers.
Alistair says, “I was told that I was lazy and I struggled to learn as I grew up. By the time I reached my late teens, it was clear that I could see things in a different way and solve problems in a manner others couldn’t. Dyslexia has its gifts.
If I were to give any advice today to young neurodivergent people, it would be embrace it. You’ll be more confident to ask for what you want when you know who you are. .”
The original version of this post Survey finds that young people think a neurodivergent disorder could be a barrier to employment appeared first on Human Resources News.
