Human brains and minds are naturally diverse. Recognising and celebrating neurodiversity acknowledges that neurological differences are normal and should be embraced. By introducing neurodiversity training and awareness across the business, we are working to make Medequip a more inclusive workplace to maximise individual potential.
Neurological differences are a natural and valuable part of human diversity. It is estimated that some 15 to 20 per cent of the global population are neurodivergent (Neurodivergent Statistics Statistics: Market Data Report 2025), with one in five diagnosed with autism, ADHD, dyslexia and other cognitive variations.
In simple terms, neurodiversity refers to the idea that our brains function and process the world in different ways, and that these differences should be respected and accommodated rather than stigmatised.
Increasing awareness and understanding of neurodivergence
Businesses and organisations who fail to encourage the inclusion and progression of neurodiverse talent miss out on the opportunities presented by creating multifaceted teams with the potential to bring new and different perspectives and experiences to the workplace. At Medequip, we recognise the importance of supporting our neurodivergent workforce, and believe we can achieve this best through education.
Early in 2025, our Wellbeing Committee saw an increasing number of reports from Mental Health First Aiders working across the depots, suggesting there was a need to improve the general understanding of neurodiversity. We needed to research how to best support our neurodivergent people as part of our efforts to create a more inclusive culture in the workplace.
With the Wellbeing Committee already focusing on conversations around both physical and mental health, investigating and implementing neurodiversity training was a natural progression in response to this identified requirement.
Developing a neurodiversity training package
Initially, the team consulted with outside agencies to advise on available training courses and materials. However, with our Mental Health First Aiders providing a wealth of information on the important areas for focus, the decision was made to develop our own neurodiversity training programme rather than to pass control to an external body.
Work began immediately on a tailored training programme designed to improve awareness of neurodiversity, to encourage Medequip people to recognise, appreciate and understand the range of neurological differences that exist and how best to support people to achieve their full potential.
“Neurodivergent individuals offer unique strengths, such as creativity, innovation, and problem-solving. For example, those with ADHD thrive in dynamic environments, autistic individuals often excel in detailed and focused tasks, and people with dyslexia may have strong spatial and creative abilities,” stated Davina McGovern, speaking on behalf of Medequip’s Wellbeing Committee. “Embracing neurodiversity helps foster a more inclusive and diverse society that values different ways of thinking.”
The objective is also to adopt good working practices designed to maximise everyone’s potential, not just those who may be neurodivergent.
Moving forward
Medequip’s own Neurodiversity Training package is now being integrated into the business training platform and will be rolled out later this year across all Medequip depots. The Wellbeing Committee is also researching into specialised organisations capable of providing assessment and support as well as one to one coaching into the future.