Creating a Neurodiverse-Friendly Workplace: A Win for Everyone

Neurodiversity refers to natural variations in how people think, learn and process information. This includes conditions such as ADHD, autism, Tourette’s syndrome, and differences in communication and sensory processing. In Ireland, one in 10 adults identifies as neurodivergent.

– "It's important to emphasize that neurodiversity has nothing to do with intelligence. It simply means experiencing the world differently - not in a better or worse way," says Jenny Kindgren, behavioral scientist and training manager at Riksförbundet Attention.​

In 2024, the AJ Products team in Halmstad, partnered with the Swedish Association of Attention to help make workplaces more inclusive. At AJ Products, our goal is to create work environments where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential. Our range includes solutions designed to support a more accessible and adaptable workplace for neurodivergent employees.

– We’ve made it a priority to deepen our understanding of neurodiversity so we can offer solutions that make working life easier and more inclusive. It’s encouraging to see the growing interest in making workplaces more accessible," says Annika Petersson, Head of Project Sales Office at AJ Products.

Explore Our Neurodiverse-Friendly Products

Awareness of neurodiversity has grown in recent years, and many businesses are eager to learn more. Jenny Kindgren has seen a strong commitment from companies looking to create more inclusive and supportive workplaces.

While progress has been made, much more is still needed. Jenny Kindgren compares it to how, over the past few decades, workplaces have become better equipped for employees with mobility disabilities; elevators, ramps and accessible restrooms. However, similar advancements in neurodiversity adaptations are still lacking.

“Because some neurodivergent differences are invisible, many people don't realise that the same strong support for making adjustments exists,” says Jenny Kindgren. “Employers need to be more proactive. If you want to be an attractive employer, investing in an inclusive work environment shows that you care about your employees.”

A well-organised and structured work environment, where everything has its designated place, can be incredibly helpful. One effective approach is to use text or images to label cabinets and storage spaces, making it easier to find and organise items.

Lighting is another crucial consideration. For some neurodivergent people, bright spotlights or fluorescent lighting can be overwhelming. Dimmable lamps can help reduce harsh lighting and create a more comfortable work atmosphere.

Jenny Kindgren views adapting workplaces for neurodiversity as just one piece of a larger puzzle. The positive effects, she believes, will ripple throughout the entire organisation.

“It’s important to remember that by making these changes, we’re not just supporting neurodivergent individuals, but the entire team,” says Jenny Kindgren. “There’s always someone in the workplace who experiences stress and stress can cause symptoms similar to neurodivergent conditions. A calm and supportive environment benefits everyone, whether neurotypical or neurodivergent.”