Rail Business Daily Guest Writer Feature: Unlocking Potential in Neurodiversity Recruitment Practices
Focusing on neurodiversity in recruitment, Jo’s article opens with how neurodiversity is becoming increasingly recognised, with 15%-20% of the UK population identifying with cognitive variances such as dyslexia, autism, or ADHD.
The article encourages Talent Acquisition teams not to overlook this minority group and the valuable contributions they can bring to the workplace. It urges Human Resource (HR) professionals to stay informed and implement robust policies to ensure the fair treatment and empowerment of neurodiverse individuals during recruitment, and in the workplace.
With over three decades of experience in the rail industry, particularly in HR and safety-critical role recruitment specialising in train drivers, Jo's expertise is invaluable in advocating for inclusivity in recruitment processes.
Highlighting the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in the workplace, Jo emphasised the need for open communication and sensitivity among all stakeholders involved in the recruitment process. Especially key is sharing timely, accurate information with the OPC, to help understand a candidate’s needs.
The article stressed the significance of exploring and making ‘reasonable adjustments’ to help candidates showcase their abilities and ease anxiety. It also stresses the importance that any adjustments made should be viable within training and on-the-job. The feature goes on to share some OPC initiatives that they’re actively implementing to support neurodiverse candidates throughout the recruitment journey. Look out for our neurodiversity webinar later this year!
“As we navigate this evolving landscape, the OPC is dedicated to driving positive change and promoting inclusivity in the workplace while balancing the tensions held in the safety-critical industry we work in. With effective policies and practices in place, we can cultivate a fairer and more supportive environment for all employees to thrive in."
Jo Lawrence, Business Development Director at the OPC
The Guest Writer feature ran on 12th and 14th March, 2024 in the RBD News Bulletin, and is also available on their website. You can read the full article here.
If you think the OPC can support your organisation’s neurodiversity recruitment needs, contact our friendly team.