Report: Availability of support stalling hiring for neurodivergent workers

The disparity in hiring employees with disabilities in Ireland is partly attributed to employers' hesitance, according to a report by social enterprise platform Now Group. The organization conducted a survey of 150 Irish employees in July, revealing that many employers lack confidence and practical knowledge to hire and support neurodivergent individuals and others with disabilities.

Ireland has the largest disability employment gap in the EU, with only 8% of participating employers expressing confidence in hiring and supporting neurodivergent employees. Over half of the participants felt inadequately equipped to hire and support neurodivergent people, citing fears of making mistakes in communication and insensitivity during recruitment as barriers.

Nearly one-quarter of respondents stated they lacked knowledge on accommodating people with additional needs in the workplace and during the recruitment process. Now Group CEO Maeve Monaghan emphasized that employers' lack of confidence and practical knowledge, rather than their unwillingness, hinders inclusivity efforts. She advised that employers don't need to have all the answers before starting, as expertise and support are available through partners like Now Group.

Meanwhile, SiliconRepublic.com reported that organizations are missing out on a wider pool of talent by not adapting workplace structures to favor diverse candidates.