Inclusive Treats and Tools: How Sensory Support Can Empower Neurodiverse Teams
Braewell are a company on a mission to bring the power of inclusivity in Corporate Gifting & Meetings. Whilst we all love a treat, it is recognised that appreciation, inclusivity and mental health and wellbeing go hand in hand when it comes to the workplace.
The Growing Need for Support
Around 15-20% of the population are neurodiverse, including individuals with ADHD, Autism & Dyslexia. Now, that figure is only what we know about, as a lot of people who know they have neurodiverse needs do not share this information with their employers due to the fear of being discriminated against whilst at work.
There is an ever-growing need for support for neurodiverse employees. ‘Companies that embrace neurodiversity see 30% higher productivity levels’, Harvard Business Review.
In traditional work environments, neurodiverse employees face so many challenges. ‘Only 14% of neurodivergent employees feel their workplace is inclusive’ mydisabilityjobs.com. Loud office environments, overstimulation, difficulty focusing or losing concentration quickly are some of the many every day struggles that neurotypical peers would not struggle with in their everyday work life. Braewell have recognised this and have begun to make changes.
How companies are changing and recognising individual needs
Incorporating fidget toys, sensory tools, stress balls and calming scents can have a huge benefit to a daily meeting or workplace environment. It is a simple solution with a big impact. For example:
- Fidget toys can help people with ADHD focus by channelling excess energy during a meeting or event, or whilst required to sit at a desk for a long period of time.
- Weighted objects or stress relief items can reduce anxiety for individuals with Autism.
- Earplugs can offer discreet relief from everyday noise or distractions.
These alone, just highlight how they can support neurodiverse employees improve focus and reduce stress, and that is without the treats.
Our treat, meeting and event boxes cater for everyone – a mix of sensory elements and treats to not only be inclusive but show recognition for the work people do, creating a sense of belonging for all. Research suggests that ‘50% of neurodivergent workers who receive workplace adjustments and recognition are more likely to stay in their jobs, compared to 33% without adjustments’ championhealth, and that ‘teams that include neurodiverse individuals can be up to 30% more productive and demonstrate higher innovation, and neurodiverse employees were 90%-140% more productive than their neurotypical peers’ JPMorganChase, highlighting the importance of the role in creating a more welcoming, inclusive and productive work culture.
Our aim is to create an inclusive working environment, one box at a time! Start with small, thoughtful gestures and begin to build a workplace where everyone feels valued.
