In our latest podcast episode, we had the pleasure of hosting Steve Collinson, Chief HR Officer at Zurich Insurance UK, to discuss a crucial topic: neurodiversity in the workplace. 🤝 🔍 Key Takeaways: - **Rethinking Recruitment**: Zurich is pioneering inclusive hiring processes to remove barriers for neurodivergent candidates. - **Data-Driven Insights**: Research revealed that 63% of neurodivergent adults feel employers see neurodiversity as a red flag. Zurich is using this data to drive change. - **Practical Initiatives**: From clear job descriptions to flexible interview formats, Zurich is implementing strategies to support neurodivergent individuals. - **Employee Feedback**: Listening to neurodiverse colleagues has been instrumental in shaping Zurich's initiatives. - **Supportive Environment**: Zurich offers neurodiversity assessments and flexible working options, ensuring employees can thrive. Steve shared Zurich's journey, emphasizing the importance of concrete actions over mere presentations. With 1 in 7 people in the UK being neurodivergent, it's vital to create an inclusive environment where everyone can succeed. 🌈 Zurich's efforts are not just about compliance but about genuinely making the workplace better for everyone. By focusing on neurodiversity, they are tapping into a valuable talent pool and fostering a culture of understanding and support. 🌟 Let's continue to push for inclusivity and make our workplaces a haven for all talents. 💼✨ #Neurodiversity #InclusiveWorkplace #HR #Recruitment #DiversityAndInclusion #ZurichInsurance #WorkplaceInclusion #NeurodivergentTalent #EmployeeSupport #FlexibleWorking #DataDrivenHR

In this episode Theo Smith speaks with Nicole Bateman, a SEND advisor and co-founder of the Super Sensory Squad.

They discuss Nicole's journey from being a teacher to advocating for children with sensory needs, the importance of understanding sensory processing, and practical strategies for parents and activity providers to support children.

The conversation highlights the significance of creating inclusive environments and the impact of parental experiences on education.

Takeaways

• Nicole Bateman is a SEND advisor and co-founder of the Super Sensory Squad.
• The Super Sensory Squad uses penguin characters to teach children about sensory systems.
• Understanding sensory and emotional regulation is crucial for children's learning.
• Nicole's journey began after her son was diagnosed with epilepsy and autism.
• Parents often leave teaching roles to support their children with additional needs.
• It's important to look beneath a child's behavior to understand their needs.
• Creating a predictable environment helps children feel in control.
• Activity providers need training to support children with sensory differences.
• Regulation strategies can include proprioceptive input and sensory-friendly activities.
• Future aspirations include getting the Super Sensory Squad animated for wider reach.

In this episode of Neurodiversity with Theo Smith, David Plink, CEO of Top Employers Institute, shares insights on the intersection of neurodiversity, inclusion, and leadership. The conversation explores the importance of understanding neurodiversity in the workplace, the role of organizations in fostering inclusive environments, and the challenges and opportunities that arise in neurodiversity initiatives. David emphasizes the need for a cultural shift in how organizations approach neurodiversity, highlighting the benefits of collaboration and community in creating supportive workplaces. The discussion also touches on global perspectives on neurodiversity and the future of work, advocating for personalized and adaptable work environments that cater to diverse needs. Takeaways: - Neurodiversity is a unique way of looking at the world. - Personal experiences drive the importance of neurodiversity. - Organizations need to create a culture of openness. - Neurodiversity initiatives are still in early development stages. - Collaboration is key to advancing neuroinclusion. - Different countries are at varying levels of neurodiversity awareness. - Technology can help in creating inclusive recruitment processes. - Understanding neurodivergent perspectives can improve workplace design. - Personalization in the workplace enhances employee experience. - Community building is essential for sharing best practices.