Foothold launches Engineering Neurodiverse Futures programme

The Engineering Neurodiverse Futures programme from the engineering charity includes a Differently Wired Hub, an online resource offering expert advice, information and content on neurodiverse conditions including autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia.

Direct support is also available for engineering students and apprentices, ranging from access to a formal diagnosis, to counselling support to help them understand their feelings about their diagnosis, and financial grants to fund assistive equipment or help with day to day living costs.

Employers in the sector will also be able to access information and guidance on how to enable their neurodiverse colleagues to thrive and support the success of their business.

According to Foothold, the programme has been developed following an increase in calls for neurodiversity support to the charity, with research also showing a greater incidence of neurodiversity among engineers. With 1 in 7 people thought to show some form of neurodivergence worldwide, there are an estimated 820,000 neurodiverse individuals employed in the industry in the UK alone.