On the 23rd and 24th of April, we attended The Watercooler and Office event held at the Excel in London. This event serves as a focal point for leaders in well-being and mental health, providing attendees with immersive content and insights into new tools and solutions aimed at shaping organizational strategy and delivering results.
At the event, we had a stand where attendees could engage and connect with us, to learn more about neurodiversity and how to recruit, retain, and support neurodivergent individuals in the workplace.
In addition to the stand, we conducted a workshop on both days titled ‘It’s not what you do, it’s the way you do it – easy steps to help you make your workplace more inclusive’. Led by our Neurodiversity Consultant, Emma Owen, and Founder, Lawrence Howard, the workshop delved into three case studies illustrating the lived experiences of neurodivergent employees. Together with the attendees, we explored strategies and practical tips to enhance workplace inclusivity, while gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges and strengths neurodivergent individuals bring to the table.
The workshop aimed to address the common issues where despite increased awareness of neurodiversity, many managers and colleagues struggle to translate this awareness into tangible action for daily inclusivity.
At the event, we engaged in various workshops and talks led by esteemed speakers. Among these sessions, Clarke and Carries Carlisle’s presentation on ‘Why neurodiversity and wellbeing need to be considered in the workplace’ left a lasting impression on us. Drawing from their personal journey of raising a neurodivergent daughter, they emphasised that neurodiversity should be viewed as a strength rather than a limitation.
Webinar
We are also hosting a free-to-attend webinar on May 9th at 10:00 am on ‘How to support parents of neurodivergent children at work’. During the session, you’ll gain:
- Insight into the unique pressures and challenges that parents of neurodivergent children may experience.
- An understanding of the strengths and abilities, parents of neurodivergent children bring to their work.
- Real-life examples of the types of information, support, and accommodations that make all the difference.
Including expert insight from:
- Matt Elliott – Chief People Officer, Bank of Ireland.
- Ben Long – Learning and Development Manager – DEFRA / Abilities@ISS Chair.
- Emma Owen – Neurodiversity Consultant, Thriiver.
If you can’t make the session, go ahead and register and you will receive the recording of the session a few days later.
Thank you to the organisers of the Watercooler and Office event, as well as everyone who came by our stand or attended our workshop.
