NATTC Ltd https://n-attc.co.uk/ NATTC Ltd Wed, 13 Mar 2024 14:50:19 +0000 en hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.3 https://n-attc.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/cropped-354114591_213283654444802_7266926325288003_n-32x32-optimized.jpg NATTC Ltd https://n-attc.co.uk/ 32 32 11 Pieces of Assistive Technology That Revolutionise Productivity for Neurodivergent Professionals. https://n-attc.co.uk/11-pieces-of-assistive-technology-that-revolutionise-productivity-for-neurodivergent-professionals/ https://n-attc.co.uk/11-pieces-of-assistive-technology-that-revolutionise-productivity-for-neurodivergent-professionals/#respond Wed, 13 Mar 2024 14:50:19 +0000 https://n-attc.co.uk/?p=3485 Assistive technology can be the difference between burnout and healthy productivity. It can be the difference between success and failure for neurodivergent people. Getting the right support shouldn’t be hard – but there’s not always a great amount of accessible education about what’s out there. Plus, assistive technology is only useful and supportive if it […]

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Assistive technology can be the difference between burnout and healthy productivity. It can be the difference between success and failure for neurodivergent people. Getting the right support shouldn’t be hard – but there’s not always a great amount of accessible education about what’s out there.

Plus, assistive technology is only useful and supportive if it suits the needs of the individual, and they actually know how to use the tools provided. Solutions need to be tailored to the needs of the individual.

Here are some pieces of software and hardware that our clients have found very useful. Take a look and see if any of these might benefit you as a neurodiverse person in the workplace!

  1. Jamworks.

This software helps students predominantly – but does have functions that are beneficial in the workplace. It includes assistive note taking, live captioning and transcription of lectures and videos, as well as automatic highlights. This is great for neurodivergent people who have to wade through a wealth of information, but also for those who are deaf or hard of hearing.

  1. reMarkable.

reMarklable is an E-ink writing tablet that helps you write and draw just like you do on paper. It’s great for taking notes, drawing pictures, and even reading books and PDFs. It’s like having a digital notebook that feels like the real thing.

  1. Texthelp

TextHelp is a literacy, accessibility and dyslexia software developer for employees & students with reading and writing difficulties.

It has many fantastic features that you can choose from based on your needs, such as:

3a) Read&Write – The easy-to-use toolbar makes documents, files and web pages more accessible. Read&Write is a big confidence booster for anyone who needs a little support with their reading and writing in the workplace. It’s also useful for those with mild visual impairments.

3b) Browsealoud – This innovative support software adds speech, reading, and translation to websites facilitating access and participation for people with dyslexia, low literacy, English as a second language, and those with mild visual impairments.

3c) Equatio – Takes the pain out of creating mathematical expressions digitally. Equatio lets everyone create mathematical equations, formulas, Desmos graphs and more on their computer.

3d) CopyCert – Measures the readability of your website. It highlights mature words based on unique research, and long sentences and jargon based on UK government guidelines. It’s a great way to assess how accessible your website is – which is really important!

  1. TextAid by ReadSpeaker

This helpful tool reads text out loud. It’s really great for neurodivergent people because it makes reading easier, especially for those who struggle with words or need extra support. You can listen to articles and any other long bodies of text made for reading. Definitely a win for accessibility, as those with visual impairments also find it useful.

  1. Mindmeister

This piece of software allows people to mind map online. This helps them to collate their ideas, concepts and any information they may find to help them make connections and gain a greater understanding.

  1. Inspiration

Another simple but powerful visual thinking tool for easily creating concept maps, mind maps, diagrams, graphic organisers, outlines, and presentations.

  1. Grammarly

A classic, most of us have heard of it. It provides users with ai powered suggestions wherever they write across multiple platforms and devices. It also checks spelling and grammar. This helps people communicate with confidence in what they are writing, improving their correctness, clarity, engagement and delivery of their writing.

  1. Dragon Naturally Speaking

This handy dictation software that types out what you say into a microphone. You will also have to say ‘comma’ and ‘full-stop’ to add in any punctuation to what you are saying. It has been said that it is really straightforward and easy to use.

  1. Immersive Reader

This tool assists people with reading and comprehension. It can read text aloud for you to listen to, alternatively you can change the font size, style and colour, line spacing and even background colour to make things easier to read.

  1. Lunatask.

Lunatask is built with ADHD brains in mind, remembering things for you and keeping an eye out for your mental well-being. It is an all-in-one encrypted to-do list, mood and habit tracker, journaling and notes app.

  1. Lightkey Typing Redefined

This clever software learns your writing patterns and predicts up to 18 words ahead, including punctuation, for you to produce content faster but with confidence.

So, there you have it. 11 pieces of software that have been helping disabled and neurodivergent people in the workplace for the last several years. Some of them you may have heard of, some of them you may already be using… Some of them might sound like they’d really benefit you, but you need to find out some more info.

If that’s the case for you, don’t hesitate to get in touch for:

👍 A full workplace needs assessment.

👍 Installation and setup of appropriate assistive technology based on your needs.

👍 Training on the software so that you can get the most out of it.

We’d be happy to help!

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Why Assistive Technology is the Next Step in Your Business Evolution. https://n-attc.co.uk/why-assistive-technology-is-the-next-step-in-your-business-evolution/ https://n-attc.co.uk/why-assistive-technology-is-the-next-step-in-your-business-evolution/#respond Wed, 13 Mar 2024 14:21:39 +0000 https://n-attc.co.uk/?p=3481 Businesses are constantly evolving to stay ahead of the curve – but are they keeping inclusivity in mind, too? These two things actually go hand in hand, but not enough companies recognise this. Embracing new technologies and innovations has become a necessity for maintaining competitiveness AND fostering inclusivity. One technological advancement that is gaining momentum […]

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Businesses are constantly evolving to stay ahead of the curve – but are they keeping inclusivity in mind, too? These two things actually go hand in hand, but not enough companies recognise this.

Embracing new technologies and innovations has become a necessity for maintaining competitiveness AND fostering inclusivity. One technological advancement that is gaining momentum is the introduction of assistive technology (AT) into businesses worldwide. 

Let’s take a look at why assistive technology is the next logical step in your business evolution.

🙋 Empowering ALL employees:

Assistive technology enables employees with disabilities or neurodiversities to perform their tasks efficiently. From screen readers for the visually impaired to speech recognition software for those with mobility challenges, AT ensures that everyone in your workforce can contribute their best.

🚀 More productivity:

By investing in assistive technology, businesses can significantly boost productivity across the board. Employees can work more comfortably and efficiently, reducing the time spent on overcoming accessibility barriers.

👨‍🦽 Diverse talent:

AT allows businesses to tap into a diverse talent pool by making their workplace more accessible. Hiring individuals with disabilities or neurodiversities not only fosters inclusivity but also brings unique perspectives and skills to the team. Win/win!

📝 Meeting legal requirements:

Many countries have implemented laws and regulations requiring businesses to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. Utilising assistive technology can help your business comply with these legal obligations.

😁 Higher employee satisfaction:

When employees feel supported and accommodated, their job satisfaction increases. A happier workforce is more likely to stay with your company, reducing turnover rates and associated costs. This is a major benefit!

🏃‍♀️ Staying ahead of competitors:

As more businesses recognise the advantages of assistive technology, it’s essential to adopt it to remain competitive. Providing an inclusive workplace can set your company apart from others in your industry, not doing so can make you stick out for all the WRONG reasons.

🤓 Demonstrating CSR:

Investing in assistive technology is not only a business decision but also a demonstration of corporate social responsibility (CSR). It shows your commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive environment.

👨‍💻 Adapting to technological trends:

Major tech companies like Google, Apple, and Microsoft have incorporated accessibility features into their operating systems. Keeping up with these trends ensures that your business remains technologically relevant.

💪 Gaining customer loyalty:

Customers appreciate businesses that prioritise inclusivity and accessibility. By accommodating a broader range of needs, you can build customer loyalty and attract a more diverse clientele.

🤝 Partnering with Expert Providers:

Choosing the right assistive technology service provider, like NATTC, can make all the difference. Look for knowledgeable teams that offer tailored services, high-quality software and hardware, and ongoing support.

In conclusion, assistive technology is not just a tool for compliance but a strategic move that can revolutionise your business.

By embracing AT, you empower your employees, enhance productivity, and position your company as a leader in inclusivity and innovation. It’s time to take the next step in your business evolution and make assistive technology a fundamental part of your corporate strategy.

At NATTC we offer a full workplace needs assessment to identify which AT upgrades your business and your employees would benefit from. That way, you’re getting the perfect fit. We also install, set up and provide training on how to use the tech we provide. Get in touch for more info!

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Choosing the Right ADHD Coach: 5 Warning Signs of a Bad Egg. https://n-attc.co.uk/choosing-the-right-adhd-coach/ https://n-attc.co.uk/choosing-the-right-adhd-coach/#respond Wed, 13 Mar 2024 14:07:49 +0000 https://n-attc.co.uk/?p=3477 ADHD coaching can be an invaluable resource for individuals seeking support in managing the unique challenges of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It’s important to remember that a coach is NOT a therapist. ADHD coaching is more action-oriented and goal-focused. Together, you and your coach will: All to support better management of your ADHD symptoms. […]

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ADHD coaching can be an invaluable resource for individuals seeking support in managing the unique challenges of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

It’s important to remember that a coach is NOT a therapist. ADHD coaching is more action-oriented and goal-focused.

Together, you and your coach will:

  • Work on building new skills
  • Create opportunities to show accountability
  • Develop new routines
  • Establish healthy habits

All to support better management of your ADHD symptoms.

A skilled ADHD coach can provide guidance, strategies, and encouragement to help you lead a more fulfilling life. However, it’s important to be vigilant when selecting the right coach for you. There are plenty of people out there who aren’t qualified, but will try and make you part ways with your money, regardless. One 6-week course that requires absolutely no vetting is enough for some people to brand themselves ‘experts’ while churning out generic solutions where individual attention is required.

Let’s look at some of the red flags and warning signs of a bad ADHD coach – to help you make an informed choice.

1. Your Coach Has Questionable Accreditations.

One of the most critical warning signs is the absence of formal accreditation or training in ADHD coaching. Make sure to do your research and check that their accreditations are from reputable organisations (e.g. ICF, PAAC). This ensures that the coach has undergone rigorous training and adheres to professional standards.

2. They Go For The Ol’ One-Size-Fits-All Approach.

Beware of coaches who apply the same coaching methods to all clients. ADHD affects individuals differently, and coaching should be tailored to your specific needs. A bad coach may offer generic solutions that do not address your unique challenges effectively.

3. Rubbish Communication.

Effective communication between you and your coach is essential for progress. If a coach consistently fails to provide clear guidance or doesn’t listen to your concerns, it can hinder your development. A good coach should be able to articulate strategies and feedback clearly, ensuring that you understand and can apply their guidance.

4. They Make Unrealistic Promises.

Be cautious of coaches who promise quick fixes. Managing ADHD is a journey that requires time and consistent effort. A bad coach may make exaggerated claims about rapid improvements, which can lead to disappointment and frustration.

5. They Don’t Understand Your Trauma.

ADHD coaching is distinct from therapy, but a coach should still be aware of the emotional challenges individuals with ADHD may face. If a coach’s sessions consistently leave you feeling worse than before, it’s a red flag. A competent coach should understand and respect trauma responses in people living with neurodiverse challenges.

On the other hand, a good coach will make an effort to:

  • Establish good communication with you.
  • Meet you on your level.
  • Assess your individual needs thoroughly.
  • Come up with holistic solutions and strategies.
  • Have references and accreditations.
  • Be empathetic.
  • Tailor their approach.
  • Empower you.

Choosing the right ADHD coach is essential for your journey toward better ADHD management. Look out for the above warning signs of a bad coach. It’s crucial to find a coach who holds appropriate accreditations, offers personalised coaching, communicates effectively, sets realistic expectations, and shows empathy and understanding. By doing so, you can increase your chances of finding strategies that help you live and thrive with ADHD.

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Fostering a Supportive Workplace Culture: The Role of Leadership in Disability Inclusion. https://n-attc.co.uk/fostering-a-supportive-workplace-culture-the-role-of-leadership-in-disability-inclusion/ https://n-attc.co.uk/fostering-a-supportive-workplace-culture-the-role-of-leadership-in-disability-inclusion/#respond Wed, 13 Mar 2024 13:35:51 +0000 https://n-attc.co.uk/?p=3471 As a leader, your job goes beyond implementing ideas and values. You have to demonstrate them to truly embed them into your culture. It’s no different for disability inclusion! With so many businesses claiming to be inclusive, it’s very easy to spot the ones that are taking meaningful action and the ones that aren’t truly […]

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As a leader, your job goes beyond implementing ideas and values. You have to demonstrate them to truly embed them into your culture.

It’s no different for disability inclusion! With so many businesses claiming to be inclusive, it’s very easy to spot the ones that are taking meaningful action and the ones that aren’t truly supporting employees’ needs.

Let’s not underplay it, though. Leadership plays a crucial role in setting the tone for disability inclusion within a business. By articulating a clear vision of inclusion and diversity from the top-down, leaders signal to the entire company that disability inclusion is a priority. This vision serves as a guiding principle for policies, practices, and attitudes throughout the company. It’s important to be vocal and upfront about your stance on inclusivity in your business.

But that doesn’t mean that meaningful action can fall by the wayside! Through their actions, leaders need to demonstrate a commitment to accommodating diverse needs, promoting accessibility, and celebrating the contributions of employees with disabilities. This inclusive culture encourages openness, collaboration, and innovation among all employees.

Effective disability inclusion requires more than just goodwill – it means implementing concrete policies and practices that address the needs of individuals with disabilities. Leadership is pivotal in developing and implementing these policies, ensuring they align with legal requirements, industry standards, and the organisation’s values. This may include providing reasonable accommodations, offering accessibility training, and promoting inclusive hiring practices.

Looking for guidance?

You can start by conducting accessibility assessments of your physical workspaces, digital platforms, and work processes. This evaluation helps identify barriers that may hinder the full participation of employees with disabilities. As every individual will have different needs, this is a really important step. Subsequently, implementing reasonable accommodations, such as wheelchair ramps, screen readers, adjustable desks, or flexible work schedules, ensures that individuals with disabilities can perform their jobs effectively.

We offer a full workplace needs assessment to support you with this. It can be tricky knowing where to start, but with our experience – we make the process easier.

Another thing you can do is prioritise inclusive hiring practices. Actively recruit individuals with disabilities, ensuring that job descriptions are inclusive and accessible, provide alternative application methods, and offer support during the interview process. Additionally, fostering partnerships with disability advocacy organisations and vocational rehabilitation agencies can help identify qualified candidates with disabilities!

Business owners and leaders should invest in comprehensive accessibility training and awareness programs for all employees. These initiatives educate staff about disability etiquette, accessible communication strategies, and the importance of creating an inclusive workplace culture. This is another thing NATTC can provide for you. By promoting empathy, understanding, and respect, organisations can foster a supportive environment where all employees feel valued and empowered to contribute. A win-win.

Importantly, business owners and leaders must demonstrate a genuine commitment to disability inclusion by integrating it into the organisation’s mission, values, and strategic objectives. This commitment should be visible through consistent communication, resource allocation, and leadership actions.

Additionally, establishing mechanisms for accountability, such as tracking metrics related to disability representation, retention, and advancement, ensures that progress towards inclusion goals is monitored and evaluated regularly.

Leaders can champion initiatives aimed at removing barriers to inclusion, such as improving physical accessibility, enhancing technology accessibility, and fostering greater awareness and understanding of disability issues within the workplace.

Remember, disability inclusion isn’t just a moral imperative – it’s also good for business. Research has shown that companies with diverse and inclusive workforces, including individuals with disabilities, outperform their peers in terms of innovation, employee engagement, and financial performance. By prioritising disability inclusion, leaders can unlock the full potential of their workforce, tap into new markets, and strengthen their brand reputation as an inclusive employer.

If you’re looking for support transforming your business into an inclusive, supportive environment, we can help you with training, workplace needs assessments, assistive technology and more!

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Understanding Hidden Disabilities: How to Support Employees with Non-Visible Conditions https://n-attc.co.uk/how-to-support-employees-with-non-visible-conditions/ https://n-attc.co.uk/how-to-support-employees-with-non-visible-conditions/#respond Wed, 13 Mar 2024 13:19:30 +0000 https://n-attc.co.uk/?p=3468 We all know the importance of creating inclusive workplaces for those with disabilities. But how do you operate if a member of your team has a non-visible condition? First, what are hidden disabilities? These can include chronic illnesses like diabetes, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and fibromyalgia, but also neurodiversity, like autism, dyspraxia and ADHD. They may not […]

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We all know the importance of creating inclusive workplaces for those with disabilities. But how do you operate if a member of your team has a non-visible condition?

First, what are hidden disabilities? These can include chronic illnesses like diabetes, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and fibromyalgia, but also neurodiversity, like autism, dyspraxia and ADHD. They may not be visible to the eye or consistently affect the body, but that doesn’t make them any less worthy of respect and recognition.

That recognition can come in many forms – but workplace accommodations is a major factor that improves the working lives of disabled individuals.

These are some (but not all) of the challenges that employees with hidden disabilities face at work:

– Fear of disclosing their hidden disabilities due to concerns about stigma, discrimination, or the potential for negative perceptions from colleagues or supervisors.

– A lack of understanding, education and awareness from colleagues or employers can make it difficult for employees to receive the support they need.

– Many hidden disabilities have symptoms that fluctuate or are not always apparent. This can lead to challenges in explaining to others when they need accommodations or when they are struggling.

– Employees with hidden disabilities may internalise societal stigma, feeling inadequate or like they are “faking it” because their disability isn’t visible. This can impact their self-esteem and mental health.

– Requesting and obtaining reasonable accommodations for hidden disabilities may be a more complex process, as they may not fit traditional models of accommodation. Identifying appropriate accommodations can also be challenging.

– Managing a hidden disability can be emotionally draining, especially when employees feel they must hide their condition or constantly advocate for their needs.

– Employees with hidden disabilities may experience judgement from others who assume they are not working as hard as their non-disabled peers or who hold stereotypes about what a person with a disability should look like.

– Due to the need to constantly manage their condition and navigate the workplace challenges associated with it, employees with hidden disabilities may be at higher risk for burnout.

– Employees with hidden disabilities may find themselves in the position of constantly having to educate others about their condition and advocate for their rights, which can be exhausting and demoralising.

One of the most important things you can do as an employer is foster open communication in your business. If your people know that you prioritise supporting them to do their best work, they’ll feel more comfortable coming to you with their needs. Active listening is key here. Creating a safe space and dedicated time for your employees to share their thoughts and feelings is only going to benefit your business as a whole.

Reasonable accommodations that can support employees with hidden disabilities. These can include flexible work hours, ergonomic adjustments and assistive technology. There are lots of options that employees can offer for their team members, but these will only be beneficial if they actually suit the needs of the individual. Identifying those needs can be tricky, which is why it’s great to work with a specialist organisation like NATTC.

Our holistic approach means that we work with your employees to find out the areas that they need support in, as well as suggesting a wealth of solutions that can benefit them. Our clients have found this particularly helpful, because it’s difficult to know where to find the right technology – or even whether it exists!

We offer full workplace needs assessments, suggest improvements, source and install assistive technology and other resources, and provide specialist inclusivity training for employers and employees alike. This training raises awareness and can in turn reduce any stigma surrounding hidden disabilities.

The dedication you show to fostering a fantastic, inclusive work environment for your employees can not only improve morale, but also hugely boost retention and productivity.

If you’re ready to see those benefits for your business – book a meeting now!

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Supporting Your Employees: Spotlight on Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis 🔦 https://n-attc.co.uk/spotlight-on-crohns-disease-and-ulcerative-colitis-%f0%9f%94%a6/ https://n-attc.co.uk/spotlight-on-crohns-disease-and-ulcerative-colitis-%f0%9f%94%a6/#respond Wed, 13 Mar 2024 13:00:37 +0000 https://n-attc.co.uk/?p=3464 As an employer, fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace is crucial to the well-being and productivity of your team. One way to achieve this is by understanding and accommodating the unique needs of your employees, especially those with chronic health conditions like Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. Let’s explore what these conditions are, their impact […]

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As an employer, fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace is crucial to the well-being and productivity of your team. One way to achieve this is by understanding and accommodating the unique needs of your employees, especially those with chronic health conditions like Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis.

Let’s explore what these conditions are, their impact on individuals, and to boot, we’ll offer you a list of reasonable adjustments you can make to ensure your employees thrive in their roles.

What are Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis?

Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis, collectively known as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), are chronic autoimmune conditions that primarily affect the digestive system. It’s important to recognise that these illnesses go beyond just gastrointestinal symptoms. They can affect almost every aspect of life, from energy levels to mental health.

Individuals with Crohn’s or Colitis experience these conditions differently. Some may feel well most of the time, while others struggle to find the right treatment. Common symptoms include:

  • Diarrhoea (sometimes with blood): Frequent and urgent bowel movements are typical, often accompanied by blood in the stool.
  • Abdominal pain: Intense discomfort and cramping can make it challenging to focus on work.
  • Extreme tiredness: Fatigue can be overwhelming, affecting an individual’s ability to perform daily tasks.
  • Nausea: Persistent nausea can lead to decreased appetite and weight loss.
  • Joint pain, eye problems, mouth ulcers, and skin rashes: These conditions can bring a range of additional symptoms.

Misconceptions about Crohn’s and Colitis

Before we delve into the reasonable adjustments you can make, let’s address some common misconceptions:

❌ IBD is not the same as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Crohn’s and Colitis are distinct conditions requiring different treatments.

❌ These conditions are not contagious. They are lifelong diseases resulting from a malfunctioning immune system.

Reasonable Adjustments for Employees with Crohn’s or Colitis

Here’s how you can create a more supportive environment for your employees with Crohn’s or Colitis.

Remember that each person’s needs are unique, so open communication is key.

1. Accessible and Adequate Toilet Facilities:

  • Ensure that workplace restrooms are easily accessible.
  • Consider private and well-ventilated toilet facilities to address privacy concerns.

2. Frequent Toilet Breaks:

  • Allow flexibility for employees who may need to take more frequent restroom breaks.
  • Encourage coworkers to offer assistance in covering for bathroom breaks.

3. Flexible Working Hours:

  • Offer flexible start times, especially if symptoms are more active in the morning.
  • Consider shortened work hours or remote work during flare-ups.

4. Additional Meal or Snack Breaks:

  • Accommodate the need for smaller, more frequent meals by allowing extra breaks.

5. Travel Accommodations:

  • Provide allowances for employees who may prefer driving due to restroom urgency.
  • Offer parking spaces close to the workplace.

6. Support for Medical Appointments:

  • Implement flexible time-off policies for medical appointments.
  • Ensure employees do not feel guilty about attending medical visits.

7. Clear Organisational Policies:

  • Establish clear policies on sickness absence, disability leave, and medical appointments.
  • Ensure both employees and employers understand their rights and entitlements.

8. Two-way Trust and Communication:

  • Create an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their condition.
  • Encourage open communication to develop a positive employment relationship.

Being accommodating and supportive can significantly improve the work experience for employees with Crohn’s or Colitis. In a recent study, employees with these conditions reported a positive workplace experience when they had supportive relationships with their managers and appropriate accommodations.

Inclusivity and Equality in the Workplace

It’s essential to recognise that not all disabilities are visible. Many people with Crohn’s or Colitis may feel reluctant to discuss their condition due to stigma. However, when employees feel valued and supported, they are more likely to thrive in their roles.

By making reasonable adjustments, you not only comply with legal requirements but also foster a workplace culture that promotes inclusivity and equality. It’s a win-win situation where your employees’ well-being and job satisfaction increase, ultimately benefiting your organisation’s overall productivity and success.

In conclusion, understanding and accommodating employees with Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis is not just about meeting legal obligations; it’s about fostering a workplace where everyone can thrive. By implementing these reasonable adjustments and embracing open communication, you can contribute to a more supportive and inclusive work environment, where all your employees can reach their full potential.

Are you ready to lead your business with a true commitment to inclusivity? Great!

👉 If you’re looking for support in making reasonable adjustments for your employees based on their needs, we can help you out.

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From Challenges to Success: Supporting Dyslexic Talent at Work. https://n-attc.co.uk/from-challenges-to-success-supporting-dyslexic-talent-at-work/ https://n-attc.co.uk/from-challenges-to-success-supporting-dyslexic-talent-at-work/#respond Wed, 13 Mar 2024 12:33:46 +0000 https://n-attc.co.uk/?p=3459 Dyslexia can feel like a major barrier in the workplace for those with the condition. The British Dyslexia Association (BDA) says 10% of the UK population are dyslexic – which means that plenty of dyslexic people make up the working population. It’s estimated that actually around 15-20% of people may have symptoms of dyslexia (texthelp.com), […]

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Dyslexia can feel like a major barrier in the workplace for those with the condition.

The British Dyslexia Association (BDA) says 10% of the UK population are dyslexic – which means that plenty of dyslexic people make up the working population. It’s estimated that actually around 15-20% of people may have symptoms of dyslexia (texthelp.com), so the impact could be more far reaching than first thought.

A bit about the condition:

Dyslexia is a language processing difficulty. Challenges include: literacy difficulties, information-processing, and maintaining focus. There are some strengths that are recognised amongst those with dyslexia, which include: pattern recognition, the ability to simplify complexity, dynamic problem solving, and verbal communication skills.

There’s a lot of stigma around the condition, so let’s look at some of the challenges that people with dyslexia face in the workplace that can affect their job performance and overall well-being. 

Reading difficulties: Dyslexia can make it challenging to read quickly and accurately, which may hinder tasks that involve reading emails, reports, or documents.

Spelling and writing issues: Dyslexic individuals may struggle with spelling and writing, leading to errors in written communication.

Time management: Organising tasks and managing time efficiently can be difficult, making it hard to meet deadlines and stay on top of workloads.

Memory problems: Short-term memory difficulties can affect the ability to remember instructions, information, or details from meetings and discussions.

Difficulty with instructions: Complex or lengthy instructions may be hard to comprehend and follow, potentially impacting job performance.

Stigma and discrimination: Some individuals with dyslexia may face stigma or discrimination from colleagues or supervisors who may not understand their condition.

Low self-esteem: Struggling with dyslexia can lead to lower self-confidence and self-esteem, which can affect job satisfaction and career advancement.

Misunderstandings in communication: Dyslexic individuals may misinterpret spoken or written information, leading to misunderstandings in team communication or project instructions.

Limited access to accommodations: Some workplaces may not provide the necessary accommodations or support, such as assistive technology or extra time for tasks, which can exacerbate the challenges faced by people with dyslexia.

It’s important for both employers and employees to be aware of these challenges and work together to create an inclusive and supportive work environment for individuals with dyslexia. Providing appropriate accommodations and fostering a culture of understanding can help mitigate these challenges and allow individuals with dyslexia to thrive in their careers.

In short – supporting employees with dyslexia is crucial for creating an inclusive and productive work environment.

Here are five ways employers can get started supporting their employees with dyslexia:

Providing assistive technology.

Offer access to assistive technologies such as text-to-speech software, speech recognition software, or dyslexia-friendly fonts. These tools can help individuals with dyslexia read and write more effectively. Grammarly is a great example of a free resource that can quickly check and correct spelling and grammar errors. If you’re unsure which assistive technology is best for your business and your employees, at NATTC we offer a full workplace needs assessment to match you up with the correct solutions. We also supply, install, set up and train staff on these technologies.

Flexible work arrangements.

Consider flexible work hours or remote work options, which can allow employees with dyslexia to manage their time more effectively and reduce the impact of distractions in the workplace.

Clear communication.

Encourage clear and concise communication within the organisation. For example, use plain language in written materials and provide visual aids, such as diagrams or charts, to supplement verbal information.

Offer training and awareness programs.

Conduct training sessions for employees and supervisors to raise awareness about dyslexia and its challenges. Educate staff on how to provide support and accommodations effectively. Inclusivity training is also something we offer at NATTC.

Individualised accommodations.

Everybody is different. Each individual will have different needs. Work with employees to identify their specific needs and provide tailored accommodations. This could include extra time for reading and writing tasks, breaking complex instructions into smaller steps, or assigning a mentor or coach for guidance and support. Again, we can offer support with this.

By implementing these strategies, employers can create a more inclusive workplace where employees with dyslexia can thrive and contribute their talents and skills effectively. It’s essential to maintain open communication with affected employees to ensure that the support provided meets their needs and helps them excel in their roles.

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The importance of workplace assessment https://n-attc.co.uk/the-importance-of-workplace-assessment/ https://n-attc.co.uk/the-importance-of-workplace-assessment/#respond Tue, 16 May 2023 09:16:21 +0000 https://n-attc.co.uk/?p=1929 In today’s fast-paced and competitive business landscape, organisation strive to optimize performance, enhance productivity, and ensure employee satisfaction. One of the most effective tools in achieving these goals is workplace assessment. By systematically evaluating skills, competencies, and overall job performance, workplace assessments provide invaluable insights that drive growth, development, and success for both individuals and […]

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In today’s fast-paced and competitive business landscape, organisation strive to optimize performance, enhance productivity, and ensure employee satisfaction. One of the most effective tools in achieving these goals is workplace assessment. By systematically evaluating skills, competencies, and overall job performance, workplace assessments provide invaluable insights that drive growth, development, and success for both individuals and the organisation as a whole.

Identifying strengths and areas for improvement

Workplace assessments offer a comprehensive overview of employees’ strengths and areas for improvement. By objectively measuring performance, these assessments highlight individual skills, knowledge, and abilities that contribute to job success. Recognizing these strengths enables organisations to assign tasks strategically, maximize employee potential, and promote professional growth. Similarly, identifying areas for improvement helps tailor training programs, mentoring opportunities, and targeted development plans, fostering continuous learning and skill enhancement.

Enhancing employee engagement and satisfaction

Effective workplace assessments are not limited to evaluating performance alone; they also take into account employee satisfaction and engagement. By gauging employees’ perceptions, needs, and aspirations, assessments can identify factors that contribute to job satisfaction or potential sources of dissatisfaction. This knowledge empowers organisations to create a supportive work environment, address concerns proactively, and develop initiatives that boost employee morale, motivation, and loyalty.

Aligning goals and performance

Workplace assessments serve as a bridge between individual goals and organisational objectives. By aligning performance metrics with overarching goals, assessments promote a shared understanding of expectations, foster a sense of purpose, and facilitate effective communication. Employees gain clarity on their roles, responsibilities, and performance targets, enabling them to prioritize tasks, make informed decisions, and contribute to the organisation’s success. Simultaneously, organisations benefit from increased transparency, improved teamwork, and enhanced overall performance.

Driving continuous improvement and innovation

Successful organisations embrace a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. Workplace assessments play a vital role in this process by providing valuable data for identifying patterns, trends, and potential areas of innovation. By analyzing assessment results, organisations can uncover opportunities for process optimization, refine strategies, and implement targeted interventions. This data-driven approach nurtures a culture of innovation, where employees are encouraged to suggest creative solutions, experiment with new ideas, and drive positive change within the organisation.

Workplace assessment is a powerful tool that empowers organisations to harness the full potential of their workforce. By identifying strengths, areas for improvement, and aligning performance with goals, assessments create a roadmap for growth, engagement, and success. Investing in workplace assessments demonstrates a commitment to employee development, fosters a culture of continuous improvement, and positions organisations for long-term competitiveness in today’s dynamic business landscape. Embrace the power of workplace assessment and unlock the limitless possibilities for individual and organisational achievement.

Make sure all of your staff feel valued and heard. With a workplace assessment, you can create an environment where everyone can thrive. To find out more, reach out on 0117 319 0410 or at info@n-attc.co.uk.

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