Data company creates neurodiverse-friendly workplace

ABC NEWS (Australia)

It's been found that people who are neurodiverse face major challenges when it comes to seeking employment. But one specialist data company has created a training program aimed at recruiting young people diagnosed as being on the spectrum or having ADHD. They're providing a unique environment to help them succeed in the workplace.

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00:00Kristen Hazeldean quit her job last year after experiencing burnout.

00:07The last couple of years have been gone progressively harder and I just couldn't work out why.

00:12The 37-year-old has recently been diagnosed with autism and ADHD.

00:17She's now returned to work in a new role with a company which is catering for her needs.

00:23I've got work and the work is secure and I can be productive and I am valued and I'm safe as well.

00:34And she's not alone. This data firm in Adelaide has altered its office to make it more accessible for people with sensory issues.

00:42That includes removing light bulbs from above some desks, on top of other environmental changes.

00:48Just making little adjustments is really easy. Taking out a light bulb above their desk is not that hard.

00:54Workers here use software programs like geographic information systems to map out and visualise data.

01:00Now this has a wide range of uses. Energy networks might need it to know where their infrastructure is located

01:06and telcos might use it to know where the NBN runs.

01:10Project leaders want to see other workplaces be more accommodating to create opportunities for neurodivergent people.

01:17Their brains are definitely more wired to work with big data sets and they're doing really well.

01:24The program has been supported by a South Australian government grant.

01:28Employing people with disability isn't a cost, it is a benefit and we want more workplaces to get on board.

01:35For these young people, it's a final piece of their employment puzzle.

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