Putting the ‘neuro’ into diversity and inclusion in the workplace

With just three months remaining until the discrimination ordinance comes into effect, Guernsey Chamber of Commerce is taking proactive steps to foster inclusivity in workplaces.

Recognising the need to address the challenges faced by individuals on the autism spectrum, Chamber has announced an event aimed at making businesses more welcoming for this underrepresented sector of society.

Chamber believes that by actively working towards inclusive workplaces, businesses can unlock the untapped potential of autistic individuals and contribute to a more diverse and thriving workforce. By fostering an environment that accommodates and supports neurodivergent individuals, companies can benefit from their creativity, innovation and ultimately grow their business.

According to recent reports, a mere 22% of autistic adults are engaged in full-time paid employment, while a staggering 45% have either lost their jobs or left them due to the difficulties associated with autism. These alarming statistics, coupled with the recruitment challenges faced across all sectors, highlight the urgent need to prioritize “neuro” in diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Sponsored by Law At Work, in partnership with Autism Guernsey and Guernsey Employment Trust (GET), this event will provide a platform to explore interactive real-life experiences in the workplace. It will shed light on the importance of fostering neuro inclusivity and offer practical strategies for making businesses more accessible to individuals on the autism spectrum.

The lineup of speakers for this event includes:

• Alison Rimington, Senior HR Business Manager, Law at Work CI
• Nikki Ioannou-Droushiotis, Chief Executive, GET
• Julia Watts, Service Manager, Autism Guernsey

The event will provide a unique opportunity for attendees to gain valuable insights from these industry experts and individuals with direct experience. Through their shared expertise and personal stories, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by autistic individuals in the workplace and the steps that can be taken to create an inclusive environment that embraces neurodiversity.

“We are excited to host this event in collaboration with Law at Work, Autism Guernsey, and Guernsey Employment Trust. It is our collective responsibility to drive positive change and ensure that every individual, regardless of their neurological differences, has equal opportunities to thrive in the workplace,” said Alice Gill, Executive Director at the Chamber of Commerce.

Alison Rimington, from Law at Work said: “To many, neurodiversity may seem the latest ‘buzzword’; but what I can tell you, is it is real, it is a thing and there is huge range of talent that is currently not being tapped into or nurtured appropriately. This session aims to bring to life what we are seeing in the media, demonstrate the value of understanding neurodiversity, and make you think outside the box when it comes to developing your business.”

Nikki Ioannou-Droushiotis, GET, added: “An inclusive workplace values that everyone is different, and everyone does things in different ways. We look forward to sharing some real-life examples of what adjustments or support employers can make, to benefit both their employees and the business.”

The event will take place on Tuesday 4th of July and is open to employers, HR professionals, and anyone interested in creating inclusive workplaces. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in interactive discussions and gain practical insights that can be implemented within their own organizations.