Tag: Neurodiversity Celebration Week

Team building tops the list of most-disliked workplace social activities

Almost one-third (31%) of employees dislike work team-building activities, according to a new survey by workplace expert Acas.

Acas asked employees which work-related social activities or engagements they favoured least. One fifth (20%) said they disliked after-hours drinks, with 19% disliking any social activity with colleagues.

Staff may have preferences for certain types of social engagements and may be uneasy about taking part in some others at work.

Some neurodiverse staff, such as people with Autism, could find some activities uncomfortable and may not enjoy certain social situations.

Acas is raising awareness of neurodiversity at work and recently published new advice to help employers create inclusive organisations.

Acas Interim Chief Executive Dan Ellis said: “Work social activities can be a great way for employers to improve their staff morale, wellbeing and rapport among colleagues. Our survey has found that over a quarter of employees like different types of social engagements at work.

“However, it is clear from our poll that certain activities are more popular than others and some employees dislike certain social situations with their workmates.

“The good boss will talk to their staff, find out what team-building and social activities will get everyone motivated and think about different activities that can appeal across the workforce. The secret is to ask, listen, respond and not just assume everyone will enjoy a specific activity, just because one person does.”

Employers could talk to their staff to create more engaging activities by asking what appeals to them most from a range of suitable options.

Some staff value their personal time as important in maintaining their mental wellbeing.

Ensuring that team building activities take place within normal hours will protect personal time and avoid excluding staff with parental and caring responsibilities.

Neurodiversity describes the natural differences in how people’s brains behave and process information. As well as autism, other well-known types of neurodiversity include ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia.

Acas advice is that employers should make their organisation more inclusive, so that staff feel comfortable sharing and talking about neurodiversity.

Being inclusive can help:

  • improve staff wellbeing
  • reduce absence levels and employee turnover
  • attract employees with a wider range of skills and experience
  • reduce the risk of disputes and legal claims on discrimination

Neurodiversity Celebration Week: Mindroom’s Shocking Surge in Support Needs

2023 Impact Report reveals that cost-of-living crisis has had a disproportionate impact on families affected by disability

Mindroom, a leading charity championing neurodiversity, has released its 2023 Impact Report, highlighting a staggering 261% surge in demand for direct help and support services for young people in wake of Covid.

Alan Thornburrow, CEO of Salvesen Mindroom Centre comments, “We, like many other charities that work with young people, are facing significant challenges due to the post-Covid landscape.

“Clinical mental health conditions have increased significantly, access to public services has been reduced, and the cost-of-living crisis has had a disproportionate impact on families affected by disability.”

A total of 2,249 issues were raised during 2023 with almost half of those centering around further support with education. Key issues included access to education, assessments, bullying, school exclusion, communication with school staff, legal entitlements, placement requests and transitions from school.

People also sought support for health-related issues including access to assessment and diagnostic services, post-diagnostic support, access to mental health services, support to navigate health-related meetings and signposting to other sources of support.

In response to this sizable increase in demand, the charity has worked hard to become a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of neurodivergence in an evolving world.

The 2023 report highlights how Mindroom’s nimble response has contributed to the pressures that exist with issues in education, health, parent support, and transitions.

Thornburrow continues, “Grounded in a person-centred, strengths-based approach, Mindroom’s Direct Help and Support service has become a catalyst for achievements. It’s not just about services; it’s about unlocking pathways to vital resources, fostering empowerment, and nurturing a culture of inclusion.

“By providing the right support at the right time, we improved access to vital services for neurodivergent young people across Scotland. Through our work, we empowered individuals, fostered inclusion, and facilitated positive changes in their lives, contributing to a more equitable society that values all kinds of minds.”

The impact isn’t just measured; it’s celebrated. Overwhelmingly positive metrics speak volumes with up to 100% satisfaction reported by service users.

95% of parents and carers felt that Mindroom made a significant difference to them and their children’s lives and 95% of parents also felt that the team understood their experiences, concerns, and questions.

SMR6745-Impact-Report-AW_S4Download

Thornburrow concludes, “Together, we are making a positive difference in the lives of Scotland’s neurodivergent children, young people, and their families.

“As we look ahead at the rest of 2024, we are excited to continue collaborating and building a brighter future together.”

For more information on Salvesen Mindroom Centre go to:

https://www.mindroom.org/