Neuroinclusive workplace culture and values

Explore more on neuroinclusive cultures and values below

Or return to our main guide on neurodiversity at work to learn how different neurotypes and practices come together to create a neuroinclusive culture.

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What is neuroinclusive organisational culture?

Our employees will thrive best in a place where they feel supported, valued and celebrated. That’s why it’s important for us to build an neuroinclusive company culture. This means a place that embraces differences, makes sure employees feel heard, and helps the entire workforce to feel connected.

An organisation’s culture is the culmination of the priorities, values and behaviours, which support employees in how they work singularly, in teams and with clients. Culture plays a huge role in moving the neurodiversity needle and forming neuroinclusive environments.

A positive company culture should be committed to professional values, which support all employees, of all backgrounds, genders, ethnicity, sexuality, and allow them to work with leaders of our organisation, rather than feeling like they are simply working for them.

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Get the Neuroinclusion playbook

Our Neuroinclusion Playbook gives leaders a practical roadmap for activating neurodivergent talent and designing a culture of belonging. Discover proven strategies from neuroinclusive leaders at EY, SAP, Wells Fargo and more.

Simple ways to make your company culture more neuroinclusive

Transparent leadership

When leaders talk openly about neurodiversity and show a genuine commitment to supporting every type of thinker, it sets the tone for the whole organisation. Transparency means being honest about what the company is doing well, where it needs to improve, and how it plans to learn. Leaders who communicate clearly about their goals for neuroinclusion create trust. Research shows that when leaders model empathy and openness, employees are more engaged and confident in bringing their authentic selves to work.

Once leadership sets the tone, it is important to share that mindset across the organisation. A neuroinclusive recruitment approach ensures that every stage, from job posting to interview to hiring, recognises different ways of thinking and working. According to the CIPD’s Neuroinclusion at Work 2024 report, organisations that adopt these practices access a wider talent pool and strengthen innovation.

A neuroinclusive culture is proactive rather than reactive. Simple actions such as hosting small team gatherings, providing quiet areas for collaboration, and supporting employee networks can build trust and belonging. Research from the Institute of Neurodiversity highlights the value of Employee Resource Groups in creating safe spaces for neurodivergent professionals.

Personal connection from managers and leaders sends a clear message that different ways of thinking are valued. Transparent and honest communication about goals, expectations, and work styles helps employees engage with confidence. When people feel seen and heard, they are more likely to contribute their best ideas.

Building a neuroinclusive culture is an ongoing process. Offer employees different ways to share their experiences, such as surveys, one-to-one meetings, and open discussion forums. Gathering feedback regularly helps identify barriers early and ensures your practices evolve alongside your people.

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What are the characteristics of a neuroinclusive workplace?

Before we can create a truly neuroinclusive workplace, we need to understand what it looks and feels like for employees. A neuroinclusive organisation values every way of thinking and designs systems where all employees can thrive. Key characteristics include:

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  • A culture of belonging where every employee is treated with respect, dignity, and understanding, where different ways of thinking are celebrated
  • Clear policies that promote accessibility, psychological safety, and equity across recruitment, learning, and daily operations
  • Leadership that models neuroinclusion through transparent communication, visible advocacy, and consistent action
  • Recruitment and development processes that remove barriers and encourage neurodiverse talent to apply and advance
  • Regular opportunities for all employees to learn about neurodiversity, contribute ideas, and help shape workplace policies
  • Work environments that prioritize flexibility and choice, allowing employees to customize how and where they work best
  • Continuous awareness of potential challenges or tensions in the workplace, with open dialogue and proactive solutions to address them
  • Ongoing commitment from senior leaders to embed neuroinclusion into every layer of organisational culture and decision-making

Examples of organisations building neuroinclusive cultures

At Everway, we strive to work with organisations who share our passion for neuroinclusion. Many of our clients are leading the way in neuroinclusion and are seeing a significant difference.

KPMG

How KPMG supports neurodivergent staff with Read&Write

"It takes on average three years for a person to disclose they are neurodivergent.... Read&Write is available to every single colleague, without having to jump through hoops."

A simple, inclusive solution giving every employee access to the tools they need to thrive.

Lumen logo

Lumen launches Read&Write for Work company-wide

“It offered the most complete solution for members. It will provide the tools to allow employees to break down barriers and to showcase their best self at work..."

A “game-changing” solution helping all employees to produce their best work.

Core values of a neuroinclusive culture

A neuroinclusive culture is built on values that celebrate different ways of thinking, learning, and working. These values guide how we design policies, lead teams, and measure success. It can help move from awareness to cultural change where every employee can feel they belong.

Respect

Recognising and valuing every individual’s unique perspective

Choice

Giving people flexibility in how they work, communicate, and contribute

Belonging

Prioritising psychological safety and connection so everyone feels seen and supported

Transparency

Building trust through open communication and consistent leadership action

Accessibility

Ensuring that every tool, process, and space supports all employees from the start

Growth

Encouraging continuous learning about neurodiversity to help teams collaborate effectively

Assistive technology for a neuroinclusive culture

Creating a neuroinclusive culture means designing systems that support every employee, without them needing to ask. Assistive technology like Read&Write for Work plays a key role in that shift.

How Read&Write supports a neuroinclusive culture:

  • Builds equity by default: When tools like Text-to-Speech and Check It are available to everyone, support becomes part of the workplace culture, not a special request.
  • Encourages independent learning: Employees can use features such as Dictation or Screen Masking to manage focus, reduce fatigue, and work in ways that suit their thinking style.
  • Fosters communication and collaboration: Tools like Voice Notes make feedback and discussion more personal and accessible across teams.
  • Reinforces belonging: Making assistive tools standard sends a clear message that accessibility and choice are core to how your organisation operates.
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Other topics on neurodiversity in the workplace

Employee Resource Groups

Read more →

Universal Design for work

Explore guide →