When our NOW Group social enterprise began in 2001, the Northern Ireland jobs market was not a welcoming place for people of different abilities. It was a cold house for training and gaining work experience for those with autism and other learning difficulties, effectively shutting them out of the world of work.
Now, thankfully, the conversation on neuro-diversity has changed rapidly, with language now acknowledging the ways that people perceive and respond to the world differently, and that these differences should be embraced.
However, it is essential that the conversation translates into action that helps everyone find their place in the workforce. Our mission to help people to do just that has seen increasing demand for our services as employers recognise the value of diversity in their staff.
This is the challenge put to business owners this month during Manufacturing Month in order to tap into the full spectrum of human potential as a strategic imperative. Neuro-diverse individuals bring a unique set of strengths and perspectives to the table, enriching teams and driving innovation in ways we might never have imagined.
At NOW Group, we’ve seen first hand the transformative power of embracing neuro-diversity. By creating inclusive environments where individuals of all abilities feel valued and supported, we’ve unlocked a wealth of untapped talent. From exceptional attention to detail to unparalleled problem-solving skills, people with autism, dyslexia and other neuro-divergences can be an asset to sectors including manufacturing.
But in order for that to happen, we need to create environments where they can thrive. That means providing tailored support and accommodations for the candidate and the employer to ensure that each placement is a success. Whether it’s flexible work arrangements, specialised training programmes, or access to assistive technologies, investing in the wellbeing and professional development of neuro-diverse employees isn’t just the right thing to do - it’s good for business.
In the last year, our organisation has supported 1,800 participants and placed 156 people with disabilities into jobs with a future.
Over 40 of those jobs were in companies in the manufacturing sector including production operatives, forklift drives, cleaning and business services.
In a market with almost full employment and a hunt for talent, NOW Group partners across sectors to create jobs for people who have never been given that opportunity before.
In doing so, we’re not just future-proofing companies; we’re building a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
- Maeve Monaghan is NOW Group chief executive