Supporting Neurodivergent Talent in the Workplace

In this episode of the JPF Podcast, host John Fogarty speaks to Mo Bury who runs Momentum Training. They offer neurodiversity in the workplace training, transformative coaching, and insights into behaviour and culture change, as well as conference speaking.

Mo Bury highlights how neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with autism, often face unique challenges in the workplace and recruitment.

Key Takeaways

Autistic people tend to struggle with idioms, metaphors, and social conventions like hierarchy, making it harder for them to navigate traditional corporate settings.

Sensory overwhelm and "masking" to fit in socially can also be exhausting. Mo advocates for simple, cost-free adjustments, such as creating quiet spaces, allowing flexibility with social interactions, and offering advanced notice of changes.

Reasonable accommodations not only help neurodivergent individuals thrive but can also benefit the entire workforce, improving productivity and reducing anxiety.

Key moments

“Neurodivergent individuals often have incredible strengths that can be game-changers in the workplace."

"It's not about fixing neurodiversity; it's about creating environments where everyone can thrive."

"The key is understanding that flexibility and support are essential to unlock hidden potential."

"Neurodivergent talent brings fresh perspectives that drive innovation and problem-solving."

About the guest

When Mo first learned about neurodiversity, she was convinced that she was neurotypical. The more Mo learned, the more she recognised it in herself and had a lot of, "oh that makes sense" moments. She joined the ADHD UK Facebook group and she says it was like she'd suddenly found a group of people just like her, with the same frustrations and challenges. At 59 Mo says she doesn't feel the need for medication so is in no rush (private diagnosis costs a lot) and is happy to continue learning how she can work with her brain to help it be healthier and function better whilst she waits on the NHS list for a diagnosis, which will be about 2 years.

Mo has gone through her whole life not knowing that her brain likes to do things differently to other people and she has beaten herself up for all the silly things that it didn't do so well. When she became "aware" everything changed. Mo put systems in place to help support what her brain doesn't like doing and stopped being mean to herself when it messes up occasionally.

The Thrive Neurodiversity & Mental Health Neurodiversity training Mo delivers in one global organisation is helping other people become aware of just how easy it is to make the world a better place for those brains that don't fit into the majority box, so everyone can be at their best at work.

About the Host

John Fogarty has a training background dating back to 2005, with achievements including a teaching qualification and assessor standard. He has previously worked with two first aid charities, delivering sessions in workplace and educational environments.

John has consistently received excellent feedback for his delivery and customer service, as evident in numerous reviews. He ensures learners enjoy and achieve their goals, and works with customers to select the right courses and resolves any issues promptly.

Find out more at https://jpffirstaid.co.uk/

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