A new guide Evaluating and supporting Neurodifferences at work is now available from The Society of Occupational Medicine (SOM). It is a product of the SOM Occupational Health Psychology Special Interest Group (SIG) and has been launched during Neurodiversity Celebration Week.
The guide is aimed at occupational health (OH) practitioners, Human Resources professionals and employers, who are considering referring their staff for a diagnostic assessment of or services to support ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Tourette's Syndrome and/or similar. It outlines what to look out for in staff, different options available for support and legal duties of employers. The guide presents recommendations informed by research evidence, the latest guidance from regulatory bodies, current practice, and case law. The group are now looking to produce a guide on leadership in wellbeing.
"Navigating services for neurodiversity can be confusing - there's a lot of options for support and it's hard to pin point which you need at which point. This guidance explores the topic of identification and diagnosis, with advice for occupational health and employers on remit and commissioning. We hope it will de-mystify some of the terms and processes available, and lead to confidence in raising what can be a tricky and emotional topic."
Dr Nancy Doyle, Occupational Health Psychologist and member of SOM Occupational Health Psychology SIG
With thanks to contributors Dr Nancy Doyle, Dr Belinda Medhurst and Dr Gail Kinman.