We Don’t Have the Budget to Support Our Neurodivergent Staff
As a business leader, I get it - budgets are tight. Every penny is being scrutinised, and investing in support for your neurodivergent employees might not feel like a top priority. But here’s something to consider: you really can’t afford not to support them.
I often hear, “We don’t have the budget.” It’s a fair concern, but supporting neurodivergent staff isn’t about special treatment. It’s about making sure everyone has what they need to do their best work -and often, that’s simpler and less expensive than you think.
Sometimes, something as small as noise-cancelling headphones or moving a desk to a quieter spot can make a world of difference.
➡️ Why Supporting Neurodivergent Employees Makes Business Sense
Instead of focusing on costs, let’s flip the conversation.
When you invest in your neurodivergent employees, the returns can be huge. I’ve worked with over 900 neurodivergent individuals, and time and again I’ve seen that with the right support, everyone benefits - employees and businesses alike.
➡️ Here are a few important numbers to keep in mind:
43% of neurodivergent employees think about leaving their job because they aren’t getting the support they need. Imagine the cost of turnover in your organisation. By providing better support, you can keep talented people and save on the costs of recruiting and training replacements.
➡️ Only 22% of employers who have diversity and inclusion policies include neurodiversity. That’s a big gap. Including neurodivergent employees in your DEI strategy makes your workplace more inclusive and unlocks more potential.
➡️ 65% of neurodivergent employees don’t disclose their condition because they fear stigma or discrimination. This fear stops them from asking for the adjustments they need, which can affect their performance. By creating a safe, supportive environment, you can help your employees do their best work.
➡️ Companies like Microsoft, Ford, and EY have seen increases in productivity, creativity, and employee satisfaction by embracing neurodiversity in their workplaces.
➡️ Businesses that support neurodivergent employees have been shown to outperform their competitors, generating 28% more revenue on average.
The Risks of Doing Nothing
If you’re still not convinced, consider this: tribunal cases involving neurodivergent employees are on the rise.
In 2023, there was a significant increase in claims relating to neurodiversity discrimination, covering conditions like dyslexia, autism, ADHD, and dyspraxia.
In one case, a company had to pay out more than £250,000 for not providing reasonable adjustments, in breach of the Equality Act 2010.
The financial risks are real. When you’re next working on budgets or presenting to the board, it’s worth including neurodiversity support - not just to avoid legal issues, but to create a workplace where everyone can thrive.
What’s Next?
Supporting your neurodivergent employees is essential and is more than just about compliance or avoiding tribunal cases.
It’s about creating a workplace where your team , and your business—can really thrive. When employees feel supported, they’re more engaged, productive, and loyal. You’ll attract top talent, improve morale, and build a reputation as a company people want to work for and with.
So, next time you’re reviewing your budget, ask yourself: Can we really afford not to support our neurodivergent employees?
If you’re ready to make changes, let’s have a conversation. At The Neurodiversity Academy I’ve helped countless businesses create workplaces where neurodivergent individuals succeed - and when they do, so does your business.
If you’re a neurodivergent employee reading this, share it with your HR team or manager. Encourage them to reach out - I’m here to help.
We can look at support such as training, coaching or writing your neurodiversity policy for your intranet page. The options are vast, so if your considering working with me - schedule a call and let’s chat.
About the Author:
Tamzin Hall is a neurodiversity expert and founder of The Neurodiversity Academy, helping businesses support and empower their neurodivergent staff for mutual success. Learn more at The Neurodiversity Academy.