Managing Neurodiversity at Work: Practical Skills for Line Managers

Understanding Neurodiversity in the Workplace

• What neurodiversity means in a work context
• Common neurotypes, including autism, ADHD, and dyslexia
• Spiky profiles and strengths-based job design
• Common stereotypes, myths and misconceptions

The Manager’s Role

• Why managers play a critical role in inclusion and performance
• Common unintentional barriers created by management practices
• The impact of assumptions, communication styles, and workplace norms

Communication and Working Practices

• Clear communication, expectations, and feedback
• Managing workload, deadlines, and flexibility
• Supporting different working styles without lowering standards

Reasonable Adjustments in Practice (UK Context)

• The Equality Act 2010 and reasonable adjustments
• What is considered “reasonable” in practical terms
• Recording, reviewing, and implementing adjustments

Practical Scenarios and Case Studies

• Realistic management scenarios
• What to do — and what to avoid
• Group discussion and problem-solving

Embedding Inclusive Practice

• What good management practice looks like going forward
• Small, practical changes managers can implement immediately
• Building confidence to manage neurodiversity proactively

Optional Follow-On Modules

• Autism Inclusion at Work: Practical Management Skills
• ADHD Inclusion at Work: Focus, Performance, and Support
• Psychological Safety in Neurodiverse Teams

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Understand neurodiversity in a management context
• Recognise common workplace barriers for neurodivergent colleagues
• Apply practical strategies to communication, workload, and feedback
• Respond appropriately to disclosure and adjustment requests

• Line managers
• People managers
• Team leaders
• Supervisors
• HR professionals supporting managers

Neurodiversity is an increasingly important consideration for managers, with most teams including individuals who think, process information, and communicate differently from the typical.

This practical, manager-focused course equips people managers with the confidence, knowledge, and tools to support neurodivergent colleagues effectively, while maintaining performance, fairness, and consistency.

The course focuses on real workplace situations, providing managers with clear guidance on communication, reasonable adjustments, and inclusive working practices that benefit both neurodivergent and neurotypical team members.