20 Workplace Accommodations For Neurodivergent People

Rachel Worsley  |  26/08/2023

Accommodations for neurodivergent workers can vary widely depending on individual needs and job requirements. Here are twenty common accommodations that neurodivergent workers may request or benefit from:

1. Sensory-Friendly Workspace: Providing a workspace with adjustable lighting, noise-cancelling headphones, or a quiet area to accommodate sensory sensitivities.
2. Flexible Work Hours: Allowing flexible start and end times or alternative work hours to accommodate individual routines and reduce sensory overload during peak commuting hours.
3. Remote Work Options: Permitting remote work or a hybrid work arrangement to reduce sensory challenges associated with the physical office environment.
4. Structured Communication: Clearly defining communication expectations and using written communication methods (e.g., email, messaging apps) for instructions and task assignments.
5. Visual Supports: Providing visual aids, schedules, or checklists to assist with task organization, time management, and understanding expectations.
6. Supportive Supervision: Offering regular check-ins with supervisors or mentors to provide feedback, clarify expectations, and address concerns in a structured and supportive manner.
7. Job Coaching: Access to a job coach or mentor who can help navigate workplace challenges, learn new skills, and develop strategies for success.
8. Breaks and Time Management: Allowing scheduled short breaks during the workday to help manage sensory or emotional overload and maintain focus.
9. Alternative Interview Formats: Offering alternative interview formats, such as skills assessments or written exercises, to assess abilities without relying solely on traditional interviews.
10. Workload Adjustments: Modifying job tasks, responsibilities, or workload to align with individual strengths and limitations, ensuring effective performance of essential job functions.
11. Workspace Customization: Allowing employees to personalize their workspace with preferred sensory-friendly items or adjustments.
12. Task Lists and Reminders: Providing access to task management tools, apps, or visual schedules to assist with organization and task prioritization.
13. Clear Written Instructions: Ensuring that instructions and expectations are provided in a written format, which can reduce misunderstandings and anxiety.
14. Quiet Rooms or Spaces: Designating quiet rooms or areas where employees can retreat when sensory sensitivities are triggered or when they need a break.
15. Peer or Team Support: Encouraging team members to provide support and understanding to neurodivergent colleagues and fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
16. Mentoring Programs: Implementing mentoring programs that pair neurodivergent employees with experienced colleagues who can offer guidance and support.
17. Access to Assistive Technology: Providing access to assistive technology, such as screen readers or speech-to-text software, to facilitate communication and task completion.
18. Social Skills Training: Offering training or resources to help improve social interaction and communication skills, if needed.
19. Stress-Reduction Strategies: Providing access to stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness programs or relaxation spaces.
20. Regular Feedback: Providing constructive and regular feedback on job performance to help neurodivergent employees understand expectations and areas for improvement.

It's important to recognize that these accommodations are not universally applicable, and the specific needs of neurodivergent individuals can vary greatly. Employers should engage in an interactive process with each employee to identify and implement reasonable accommodations tailored to their individual requirements and job roles.

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