Supporting colleagues with neurodiverse conditions

Before a meeting, let your colleagues know in advance what you want to discuss.
Send calendar invites so they have a record of the meeting.

Arrange meetings in a quiet, calm location.
Bright lighting, strong scents, or temperature changes can also be distracting.

When starting a conversation, address your colleague by name.
This will let colleagues know who you’re talking to.

Follow up important points in writing.
Providing short bullet points or lists of agreed tasks can often be helpful.

If someone doesn’t understand what you’re saying, don’t just repeat it.
Instead, try rephrasing it or writing it down.

Your colleague may not look at you while you’re talking.
Some people may find it easier to focus if they look elsewhere.

Don’t overload your colleague with too much information.
Keep things clear and focus on one point at a time.

Always speak directly to your colleague about how you can support them.
Avoid making assumptions about a person’s capabilities.