Harnessing inclusion for a better society with Ryan Curtis-Johnson

In 2025, workplace inclusion remains a key issue for the UK labour market. In summer 2024, the ONS reported the highest number of economically inactive people since 2012. While this label includes students and the retired, it more worryingly includes those who are unable to access the labour market due to either ill health or accessibility issues.

As the working population across the Global North declines, access to employment opportunity is a social and economic issue. But too many modern workplaces are too slow redesign their hiring and employment processes to maximise inclusivity.

In this episode, Dom, Jen and Cat chat with Ryan Curtis-Johnson from the Valuable500. He explains why inclusion is such a critical issue, not least when neurodivergence is on the rise. This conversation explores the opportunity for internal communication to create work cultures that boost diversity for enhanced organisational resilience.

Takeaways

• Inclusion is essential for a better society.
• The Valuable 500 aims to end disability exclusion.
• Businesses must navigate the fear of discussing disability.
• What's good for business is good for society.
• Inclusion should be embedded in all business practices.
• Neurodivergent individuals can bring unique strengths to the workplace.
• Organisations need to be flexible and inclusive in their policies.
• Diversity in problem-solving leads to better outcomes.
• Internal communication plays a crucial role in promoting inclusion.
• Sharing resources and knowledge fosters collaboration in inclusion efforts. Sharing best practices fosters inclusivity and learning.
• Disability should be embraced, not feared.
• Inclusion must be inherent in organisational behavior.
• Internal communicators play a vital role in promoting accessibility.
• Training on accessibility is essential for all employees.
• Care in communication can address societal challenges.
• Celebrating diversity can change negative perceptions.
• All employees should be allies for inclusivity.
• Inclusivity is a long journey that requires commitment.

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Find Ryan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-curtis-johnson-b2233330/

The Valuable 500: https://www.thevaluable500.com/