Celebrating diversity: Our partnership with Neurodiversity in Business Charity

15 May 2024

Blue spheres on a light blue background with the text 'Making Space for Neurodiversity' and a WPP logo

We are delighted to partner with the Neurodiversity in Business Charity, signalling our firm commitment to embracing diversity and inclusion within our organisation. We recognise the immense value that neurodiverse talent brings to our workplace and are dedicated to fostering an environment where every individual can thrive. 

Neurodiversity describes the amazing variety in human neurology, thinking, communication styles and expression. Those typically included in this description include are a wide spectrum of neurodivergent conditions, characteristics and expression including conditions such as Autism Spectrum Condition, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Developmental Language Disorder, and Dyspraxia. It is estimated that 15-20% of the world population is neurodivergent (rising sharply in STEM tertiary education).

Why neurodiverse talent is vital

"The more diverse our teams the stronger our business, and it’s important to recognise the unique perspectives and talents that our neurodiverse colleagues bring to the table.

Neurodiversity encompasses a broad spectrum of neurotypes, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia and more. Each of these brings its own set of strengths that enrich our workplace and contribute to our collective success. By embracing neurodiversity, we not only foster a more inclusive environment but also unlock the full potential of our teams." – Mark Read, CEO, WPP

"By embracing Neurodiversity and the contributions every kind of mind can make, businesses unleash long term potential benefits that enable their teams and their people to make an impact that matters. Neurodiverse individuals often possess exceptional abilities in areas such as pattern recognition, problem-solving, and creative thinking. By embracing neurodiversity, organisations can tap into a vast pool of untapped talent and unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation. We are pleased to partner with members such as WPP who are committed to furthering this vision. " – Dan Harris, Chairperson and Founder, Neurodiversity in Business Charity

Our commitment to inclusion

At WPP, we are committed to creating a culture where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to be their authentic selves.

In addition to our partnership with Neurodiversity in Business, we also partner with DE&I recruitment partners, such as Inclusively, to ensure diverse hiring. For our existing community, we created a Neurodiversity Champions Site with access to trainings and resources and recently re-launched Inclusion as a Skill, a global virtual learning session to cultivate inclusion and creativity. We also offer accessibility tools through our partnership with Microsoft and free, tailored mental health resources through our global Employee Assistance Programme and partnership with Headspace.

Throughout April, we ran a global campaign, Making Space for Neurodiversity, designed to raise awareness about the power of neurodiversity, our support and to provide resources on how we can all be better allies.

Excitement for the partnership

"We welcome WPP as members of Neurodiversity in Business. Their commitment to inclusion and their willingness to embrace diversity sets a powerful example for the communications industry. Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive." – David Pugh-Jones, Trustee, Neurodiversity in Business Charity

Our partnership with the Neurodiversity in Business Charity represents a significant milestone in our journey towards greater diversity, equity, and inclusion. By embracing neurodiversity, we are not only enriching our workplace but also driving positive change in the business community. Together, we can build a brighter future where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

About Neurodiversity in Business

Neurodiversity in Business (NiB) is a charitable organisation and industry forum dedicated to promoting neurodiversity and inclusion in the corporate world. For more information about NiB and its initiatives, please contact:

neurodiversity.org
+44 7392 955300
[email protected] or [email protected]