Neurodiversity, the law and the workplace

FREE for SOM Members (please log in on the SOM website first). 

Session details:

-    How might the Equality Act 2010 provisions apply to someone with a neurodiversity? 
-    Key case law 
-    One or two case studies depending on what time might permit. 

Synopsis
It is estimated that 15 to 20% of the UK population is neurodivergent, translating to around 1 in 7 people or 13 million people. These statistics mean that it most workplaces have a significant neurodivergent workforce, whether they are aware of it or not.

Awareness around neurodiversity in the workplace has gained significant momentum in recent years. Many individuals do not receive diagnoses until late in their careers, or, even with a diagnosis, they may choose not to declare it to their employer or to their work colleagues.  This can create significant issues from a legal, reputational and cultural perspective.  We have seen these exemplified in employment tribunal claims relating to neurodiversity discrimination; they often arise from a basic misunderstanding between the neurodivergent employee and their manager, leading to a deterioration of their relationship and resultant dispute which could arguably be prevented through effective management, awareness and training.

Chaired by Professor Nancy Doyle, Emma Bartlett (Partner and employment lawyer from CM Murray LLP), this webinar will be exploring the following topics: 
•    What is neurodiversity and how does neurodiversity fit into our disability legislation under the Equality Act 2010?
•    A review of the case law in this area and lessons to be learned from them. 
•    Practical tips on recruiting neurodivergent staff.
 

 
Speaker bio:

Emma Bartlett, Partner, CM Murray LLP
Emma Bartlett is a Partner specialising in employment and partnership law at CM Murray LLP. Emma is also D&I lead at the firm.

Emma advises on a varied cross-section of employment law matters, including unlawful discrimination, whistleblowing, equal pay, unfair dismissal, breach of contract, restrictive covenants, protecting confidential information, boardroom and partner disputes and claims under TUPE. She has particular expertise in dispute resolution and litigation, notably discrimination, bonus, whistleblowing and trade union issues. She is a specialist in contentious discrimination matters and handling high-value contentious claims for employers and senior individuals.
Emma acts for employers, senior executives, partners, partnerships, LLP members, LLPs and trade unions/associations. Her broad client base spans several key sectors, including financial services, professional services (including legal and architectural), surgical, pharmaceutical/biotech and design/media. Amongst these clients are a number of growing, dynamic businesses (including UK start-ups), as well as long-established financial institutions.

As a litigator, Emma’s knowledge is underpinned by a strategic approach to negotiations – representing clients in the High Court and in tribunal cases, including in obtaining, executing and defending interim injunctions against former employees alleged to have breached confidentiality provisions.

Emma frequently publishes articles and is quoted in relevant trade publications, such as International Employment Lawyer (IEL), and the national press and most recently has spoken on BBC Radio 4’s Today Programme, Radio 5, Radio 2’s Woman’s Hour, LBC and BBC regional news on various employment issues including the use of NDAs/confidentiality clauses, harassment, positive action in recruitment, and the menopause. Emma is also general editor of Thompson Reuters, Employment Precedents and Company Policy Documents and records podcast series relating to board diversity and legal issues faced by women in sport.

Chair: Professor Nancy Doyle

FREE for SOM Members (please log in on the SOM website). You will then be sent the join link.