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Leveraging neurodiversity: Supporting students - from recruitment into the workplace

Tuesday 10th September; 9.30am to 11.00am

Virtual Workshop

Neurodiversity is an umbrella term for a set of hidden disabilities including, but not limited to, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD (Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). It is increasingly being recognised that individuals with a neurodiverse condition bring different perspectives and skills to the workplace which, in turn, can make a positive difference to the organisation.

With a growing number of students with neurodiverse conditions going to university and applying for student internships, placements and jobs, it is crucial that employers build their understanding about this subject. To leverage the unique skills and strengths that these individuals have, you need to understand the ‘plus’ that being neurodiverse can bring, how your organisation can attract neurodiverse talent and how to support students once they have joined your workforce.

For this workshop, we will be joined by a number of experts who will provide a clear and practical understanding of neurodiversity including how to ensure that recruitment practices are inclusive and supportive, and how to provide relevant support in the workplace itself. In addition, we will be joined by students who identify as being neurodivergent who will share their own experiences of applying for jobs and the support they require.

  

Agenda:

  • Understanding ‘Neurodiversity’

    • Autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD

  • Common characteristics of neurodiverse employees

  • Inclusive recruitment and best management practice

  • Providing support in the workplace

Speakers

Photo of Keren Coney with long blond hair

Keren Coney

Keren is a Careers and Employability Consultant at Liverpool John Moores University, a former Co-Chair of the AGCAS (Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services) Disability Task Group and a current member of the AGCAS Research and Knowledge Committee.  She has co-authored many of AGCAS’ annual ‘What Happens Next?’ reports, which examine the destinations of UK disabled graduates. 

With a particular concern for disabled students and graduates and the challenges that exist when many of these individuals seek to enter and succeed in the workplace, Keren regularly speaks on this topic at conferences, events and training sessions.  In addition, Keren is currently studying for a PhD that seeks to explore what can be done to support autistic students to successfully progress to employment when they graduate, based at the Autism Centre for Education and Research at The University of Birmingham. 


Roland Correia

Roland is pursuing a bachelor's degree in Computer Science (Hons) at the University of Kent. He also works part-time as a social media marketing officer for his careers and employment services department. This summer, he is an intern for the University's Procurement Department working under the Assistant Director of Finance (Procurement) to research, review and record if the top 300 suppliers comply with the laws and regulations. Roland also volunteers at a gardening society and opens himself to small competitions and freelancing opportunities related to Front End Software development, per his career aspirations. 

Roland and his family moved to the UK in 2013 for better job prospects, quality of education, healthcare and other confounding factors. In the past, he struggled academically from Primary school to Secondary school, especially with English Language. He spent his next three years at St. Charles Catholic Sixth Form College, achieving some of the highest grades in his academic years. Last year, Roland was diagnosed with Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and ADHD. And has since been receiving support from a Study skills mentor, assistive software and hardware for support.


Photo of Charlotte Leighton

Charlotte Leighton, AS Mentoring

Charlotte has dedicated the past 15 years to advocating for and supporting neurodiversity through her role as an Employment Consultant at AS Mentoring. As a qualified ADHD coach, she specialises in providing coaching and mentoring to autistic, ADHD, AuDHD and other neurodivergent individuals, both in the workplace and those seeking employment.

In addition to her coaching expertise, Charlotte is a seasoned neurodiversity trainer, having collaborated with a wide range of organisations to promote neuro inclusivity. Her personal experience as a neurodivergent individual enriches her work, allowing her to offer unique insights and empathy.


This workshop will be invaluable for those responsible for recruiting and developing early careers talent and ensuring that their processes are inclusive and appropriate support is provided.

MyPlus Recruiters’ Club members are entitled to 8 complimentary places.

Non-members may purchase places at a price of £95 + VAT. Contact lise@myplusconsulting.com to purchase places or to find out more about Recruiters’ Club membership.

MyPlus run a variety of these types of events for employers. For details of the different types visit our events page. For details of forthcoming Recruiters’ Club events taking place visit our events calendar page.