Recording: Accessing Untapped Talent to widen your recruitment pool

Embracing Neurodiversity: Accessing Untapped Talent and Expanding Opportunities in the Workplace

On Wednesday, 25th September 2024, the Surrey and North Hampshire LSIP hosted the latest instalment of the Future Skills Webinar Series, focused on “Accessing Untapped Talent.” This session highlighted the often-overlooked pool of neurodiverse individuals, showcasing the positive outcomes employers have experienced when hiring from this diverse talent group. 

Coinciding with National Inclusion Week, the webinar featured a panel of experts from Hampshire County Council, Surrey Choices, Surrey Lifelong Learning Partnership, and Inclusion Education. The discussion centred on neurodiversity in the workplace, offering practical insights on how businesses can attract and support neurodiverse candidates. 

Christina Earl, Head of Innovation and Business Development at Surrey Choices, emphasized a key message for employers, stating: “Hiring disabled individuals is not just about inclusion—it’s an opportunity to tap into a rich source of talent that can drive innovation and success within your organization.” 

Surrey Choices plays a vital role in connecting employers with suitable candidates. Operating across Surrey, they maintain a talent pool of hundreds of disabled job seekers, all of whom are eager for opportunities in work experience, taster sessions, and paid employment. Their services are tailored to the needs of both job seekers and employers, offering flexible support, including job coaching and guidance on workplace adjustments. Notably, these services are provided free of charge to employers, ensuring that both parties are set up for long-term success. If you’d like to get in touch with Surrey Choices, contact employability@surreychoices.com. 

Marie Greenhalgh, Innovation and Development Director (Social Impact) at Inclusion Education, highlighted a key message for employers: “when diversity is embraced, opportunity expands for everyone.” 

Inclusion Education’s Inclusion EB8 program, based in Belvedere House, Basingstoke, offers young people with mental health challenges, neurodiversity, and additional learning needs the chance to gain valuable work experience, employability training, and on-site skills development. This initiative not only prepares students for employment but also demonstrates how to create inclusive workspaces that support diverse needs. By partnering with local businesses, Inclusion EB8 provides work experience placements, with job coaches and tailored training, helping companies build a more inclusive workforce and tap into the talents of neurodiverse individuals. 

The panel also addressed common misconceptions about hiring neurodiverse staff. Contrary to what some employers may believe, neurodiverse individuals often have the necessary skills for various roles but may require reasonable adjustments to realize their full potential. Organisations like Surrey Choices, Surrey Lifelong Learning Partnership, and Inclusion Education work to match candidates’ skills with employers’ needs. Another myth dispelled was the perceived high cost of accommodating neurodiverse employees. Adjustments are typically affordable and bring long-term benefits, including improved staff retention and financial gains. The webinar offered valuable insights for employers, and the full recording can be viewed below. 

Contact any of the panel members on the following emails: 

Employability@surreychoices.com 
toni-marie.leaf@hants.gov.uk 
michelle.duncan@surreyllp.org.uk 
marie.greenhalgh@inclusioneducation.org.uk