Most workers won’t discuss neurodiversity with employers, survey finds

Wigston, England — A recent survey of workers with neurodiverse conditions – including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism and dyslexia – shows that 7 out of 10 haven’t told their employer about it.

Conducted by researchers from the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health, the survey also found that 72% of the workers said they either wouldn’t disclose their condition on a job application or were unsure if they’d do so.

“This is worrying and unacceptable,” Ruth Wilkinson, head of policy at IOSH, said in a press release. “It clearly demonstrates that businesses need to do more to drive positive and inclusive workplace cultures, ones which provide psychological safety, ones which are supportive, and ones where people can be themselves and be comfortable to disclose and discuss their conditions without fear of negative consequences.”

She added, “This is about people, your workers, and valuing workers and the talents they bring with them – having the right culture, leadership, and processes in place to support those who are neurodiverse to join workplaces, to work, and to stay in work is important.”