Neurodiverse people bring in-demand perspectives to technology, but are not being supported and empowered across employment, according to a new report by Sparta Global.

Sparta Global’s 2023 EqualTech report has been curated from a survey of 500 senior and C-suite individuals working in organisations across almost every industry sector.

The digital skills gap in the UK continues to present significant challenges for UK employers and the wider economy.

Sparta Global’s research indicates that when companies attract and retain neuro-inclusive digital teams, they are more likely to gain and sustain a competitive advantage across areas such as; computational thinking, observation, adaptability and intuition.

Positively, 87% of digital leaders surveyed in the research believe that neurodiversity will be a top priority for their companies in 2023 and 54% stated that Covid-19 accelerated conversations around commitment to neurodiversity.

In contradiction, Sparta Global’s research also shows awareness has not equalled change. The report notes that just 21% of respondents work for businesses that tailor their recruitment practices to neurodivergent candidates.

In turn, this means 79% of organisations have taken no steps to accommodate those with neurodiverse characteristics.

Further, rigid entry requirements were also identified as a barrier – neurodiverse people often lacked sufficient support to reach their full potential in traditional educational environments. Strict requirements like 2:1 degree qualifications before even getting an interview can often mean neurodiverse people are left without an opportunity to express their talents.

“Constantly having to reach out for adjustments even when you have already disclosed your learning differences, being misunderstood and unable to be your whole self, and fearing that you won’t be able to reach your full potential because you don’t have the right resources and support in place, can leave you feeling like you don’t belong,” Marcia Brissett-Bailey said, an Independent Dyslexia and Neurodiversity champion and advocate.

Stigma associated with neurodiversity was also a recruitment barrier – conscious and unconscious bias permeates the hiring process, and stereotyping neurodiverse people into one group stops them from excelling individually.

“I had no idea that we would receive such overwhelming and honest feedback,” says David Rai, Sparta Global CEO.

“With the UK government reporting that we could face a shortage of 900,000 skilled IT workers by next year, an empowered neurodiverse community presents perspectives and skills that could be transformative. Despite this, I was shocked to see how few businesses have practically adapted their hiring strategies to support neurodiverse applicants.”

83% of neurodivergent workers surveyed reported feeling worried, nervous, and fearful about having conversations with their employer regarding their neurodiversity.

Crucially, 59% of respondents feel that there isn’t enough support available in their organisations, and fear that disclosing their neurodiversity may have negative repercussions on their future within their companies.

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Neurodivergent employees are a demographic in evolution. Of those surveyed who identified as neurodivergent, only 26% were diagnosed during childhood, while 31% were diagnosed as adults.

A further 15% told us that they are currently undergoing a diagnosis, while 28% are planning to seek an assessment in the future.

David adds; “I hope employers, educators, and those outside of our established network, can glean as much insight, knowledge, and practical advice from this report as I have”.

In addition to delivering key insights across neurodiversity and technology, the Equal Tech Report also features contributions from Admiral, Schroders, Gallagher, ADHD Girls and more. You can see the full EqualTech report here.

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