Kieran’s journey with neurodiversity support

Kieran found that our initial phone call was open and reassuring and highlighted what reasonable adjustments were available.

Kieran’s first experience with neurodiversity support came during the recruitment process. At first, they were not sure whether to disclose their ADHD diagnosis. “There is still a stigma attached to ADHD and I worried I would be labelled or only seen through that lens”. However, the reasonable adjustments phone call really helped.

“The phone call from the Talent team really helped. It was open and reassuring and gave me the space to talk honestly. I did not have to commit to any adjustments straight away, it just highlighted what was available and that made a big difference.”

“That shift in mindset gave me the confidence to speak up more in other areas of my life too. Learning to advocate for myself has been a big part of my journey and it has helped me focus on what I can do rather than what I struggle with.”

Encouraging adjustments

One of the adjustments Kieran requested was 25 percent extra time to give them a buffer in the reading room while they prepped. “The fact that the structure was already designed to be inclusive made it easier”.

“I was listened to and offered reasonable adjustment suggestions, based on what had worked for others”.

Kieran also realised that having options like fidget tools would have been helpful. “Small things like that can make a big difference when it comes to managing focus and reducing stress”.

“If you are nervous about asking for support, I would say this – ask what your options are so you can make an informed choice. People want to help, and the earlier you raise the issue, the easier it is to find a solution that works.”

The adjustments Kieran needed

At first, Kieran did not have a clear list of adjustments. “I just knew some parts of the process felt more challenging than they needed to be. Over time, I found that small changes made a big impact”.

“Having extra time, taking regular brain breaks and breaking work into manageable chunks really helped. In some cases, I did not need formal changes. Just a bit of understanding and flexibility went a long way.“

“Talking to friends, family and others who had been through something similar also helped. It gave me ideas about what might work and the confidence to ask”.

Navigating the process

Kieran mentioned their neurodivergence in their job application, which helped open the door to support.

“The process was straightforward and the team took an interest in me as a person. It felt like a two-way conversation focused on helping me perform at my best rather than proving anything. I was even offered ideas I had not considered based on previous candidates with similar needs”.

“One of the most helpful moments came after I was unsuccessful in my first application. I was given detailed feedback which helped me improve my interview techniques. That support made a huge difference. It showed me that the organisation really goes the extra mile to support candidates whether or not they need adjustments.“

Looking back

“Getting support for my neurodivergence has changed the way I approach work, communication and day-to-day tasks. It has helped me feel more in control and less like I am constantly catching up.”

“I am proud of my progress, not just in the adjustments I have received but in how I see myself. I am not just ‘getting by’ anymore. I am growing and doing things in a way that works for me”.

Advice for others

Kieran offers this advice for others – “if you think you might need support, speak up early. You do not need to have all the answers. Just being open about what you find difficult is a great place to start. The Talent team are there to listen and support you”.

“Being neurodivergent is not something to hide. With the proper support, you can thrive. By asking for what you need, you are also helping create a more inclusive environment for everyone who comes after you.”

If you are neurodivergent, have a disability or a long-term condition, you can ask for reasonable adjustments during your recruitment journey and beyond. Find out how we can support you.