“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, as well as struggling to maintain a job. Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a worldwide initiative that combats misconceptions and stereotypes that are often held by people 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 worried 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.