New initiative champions neurodiverse talent

An employment and inclusion initiative is aiming to improve job opportunities for neurodivergent people through research-led support for employers.

The new project, launched in Leeds, is designed to help organisations better support neurodivergent people in finding and sustaining meaningful work. 

Led by neurodiversity consultancy ThinkND in partnership with specialist college Lighthouse Futures Trust, the Yorkshire-wide initiative will explore barriers faced by neurodivergent individuals across recruitment, onboarding and long-term employment.

Officials say the research will bring together jobseekers, employees and employers to identify practical ways of improving inclusive working practices. 

Katie Parlett MBE, founder and chief executive of Lighthouse Futures Trust, said: “We know that more employers are recognising the benefits of having a workforce that think differently, which is precisely what neurodivergent employees bring to the table. 

“Our project will give them the practical tools and confidence to enable them to create an environment in which their employees can thrive.”

Paula Louise Dixon, co-founder of ThinkND, business and coaching psychologist, added: “Neurodivergent people are a vital part of our workforce, yet remain one of the most under-supported groups in employment.

“Too much talent is being lost because workplaces aren’t designed with neuroinclusion in mind, and this project is about changing that both practically and at policy level.”

Findings will be used by ThinkND to develop tools and guidance to help employers strengthen recruitment, retention and workplace support while recognising neurodiversity as a business advantage.

Kate Dean, neuroinclusion consultant and ThinkND co-founder, added: “Most employers want to do the right thing but don’t always know where to start. 

“By working with employers and employees across Yorkshire, this project will turn good intentions into practical action and show how embracing neurodiversity can strengthen people, profit and planet.”

The project has received backing from the Communities Innovating Yorkshire Fund and is one of just 22 initiatives selected from more than 200 applications.

It will also work with Sheffield Hallam University to review existing research and industry best practice.

Running until June 2026, the project is now seeking neurodivergent participants and employers from across Yorkshire to support its work.

Rich Crisp, associate professor, Centre for Regional Economic and Social Research (CRESR) at Sheffield Hallam University, added: “The Yorkshire Policy Innovation team is delighted to be working with ThinkND and the Lighthouse Futures Trust who received funding through YPIP’s Communities Innovating Yorkshire Fund to explore how neurodiversity can be harnessed as a competitive advantage in business. 

“This ambition aligns squarely with YPIP’s goal to test and scale innovative ways of working to promote more inclusive business practices and expand opportunities for groups to overcome the challenges and barriers to good jobs they face.”

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