DWP explains neurodivergent support for ADHD and autism – key details | Wales Online
Need to know
The DWP has issued guidance on employment support for people with neurodivergent conditions such as ADHD and autism
Sir Stephen Timms, Minister of State (Department for Work and Pensions)(Image: Parliament TV)
DWP support for neurodivergent workers explained in new update – what you need to know
The Department for Work and Pensions has outlined the support available for people with neurodivergent conditions including ADHD and autism following a parliamentary question from Labour MP Mohammad Yasin.
The NHS estimates approximately one in seven people across the UK are neurodivergent, covering conditions such as dyslexia, autism, ADHD and Tourette’s. Many neurodivergent individuals may be protected under the Equality Act 2010, though not all regard their conditions as disabilities.
Sir Stephen Timms, Minister of State for Equalities, confirmed the DWP provides various employment programmes including Connect to Work, which will support around 300,000 people by the end of the decade. The Access to Work scheme offers personalised grants for workplace adjustments beyond employers’ legal responsibilities.
Over 1,800 employer representatives attended free neurodivergence masterclasses funded by the DWP between January and March this year. The department has also launched an independent advisory panel to examine why neurodivergent people often experience poor workplace conditions and low employment rates.
ACAS emphasises that employers should provide support regardless of whether employees have formal diagnoses, as obtaining one can involve lengthy NHS waiting times. The organisation stresses the importance of creating psychologically safe workplaces where individuals feel comfortable requesting adjustments.
Experts warn that workplace support must be person-centred, as “everyone’s needs will be different, including people who share the same neurodivergent identity”. Many workers remain undiagnosed due to concerns about negative reactions or simply not feeling the need for formal confirmation.
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