Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps the Government is taking to help reduce workplace stigma for people who are neurodivergent.

The Government is taking positive steps to promote the contribution of neurodivergent people in businesses, reduce the stigma they may face within the workplace, and encourage the adoption of neuro-inclusive practices.

We know that neurodivergent people bring many positive benefits to businesses, which should be recognised. On 2 April 2023, World Autism Acceptance Day, we announced the launch of a new review into autism and employment.

The 'Buckland Review', which is being led by the Rt Hon Member for South Swindon, is focused on supporting employers to recruit and retain autistic people, identifying barriers to this, and developing ways to overcome those barriers.

One area of focus in the review is understanding the working practices or initiatives that can reduce stigma for autistic employees and autistic jobseekers. Whilst the review’s primary focus is autism, many of the adjustments and initiatives that would benefit autistic people could also benefit neurodivergent people.

The review will present recommendations to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions later this year.

We are also supporting employers via Disability Confident to increase their understanding of how to recruit, retain, and support neurodivergent employees.  Being Disability Confident helps employers to tap into the huge pool of talent amongst disabled and neurodivergent people, and recruit, retain, and develop people with the skills businesses need.

The scheme provides employers with the skills and knowledge to remove barriers that might be preventing disabled people, neurodivergent people, and those with long-term health conditions, from accessing employment and allows them opportunities to fulfil their potential and realise their aspirations