“In my original interview I did not disclose that I was dyslexic or anything neurodiverse.”
People in Cardiff with neurological conditions say they often find their disability a barrier
into work and struggle to maintain a job. Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a worldwide
initiative that combats misconceptions and stereotypes that are often held about
neurodiverse people.
According to the Welsh Government at least 15% of people are neurodivergent, but digital
journalist, Jess Clayton from ITV says she only knows two people at work that have
additional needs. Jess has recently been diagnosed with ADHD She says she “would like to
see work groups in place where people can discuss their additional needs and what could
help them during the day.”
Jess wants legislation to be put in place to foster more accommodating working
environments. She is thankful to ITV for listening to her and implementing strategies that
prevent her from becoming overstimulated.
However, she hasn’t always had such a positive experience. She said “previously when I
worked in retail, it was a nightmare. I felt like things were always going wrong. Obviously,
to an employer I’m not doing my job in their eyes.”
Some autistic people in Cardiff think there is not enough support in place for them to be
successful in job interviews. Aubergine Cafe in Grangetown is unique in the city. It’s run by
autistic people for autistic people. The café manager Aaron Brown is celebrating
Neurodiversity week and is grateful for the employment opportunity the business has
given him.
Aaron told CJS News that previously he “really struggled to hold down jobs before finding
this place because most workplaces aren’t suited to autistic people.” He explained that he
feels happy at the café because everyone is in the same boat.
Kellie Vvind from the charity Wellbeing in Diversity is starting a new job next week. She
said, “in my original interview I did not disclose that I was dyslexic or anything
neurodiverse.” She added this was because she always worries that “there will always be a
level of judgement.”
The Welsh Government are encouraging people to sign on to events available on the
Neurodiversity Celebration Week website. 13 – 19 March.