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.
In a statement, Foothold CEO, Jane Petit, said: “Every day, many neurodiverse engineers face challenges and barriers which prevent them from accessing the opportunities that neurotypical people take for granted. In particular, we know that this leads significant numbers of students and apprentices to drop out of their courses – which has a knock-on effect for the entire engineering workforce.
“By providing this programme of support for established and aspiring engineers, we hope to build a world where everyone in the industry is empowered to make the most of their unique talents and capabilities. We’d like to thank Neptune Energy for funding the development of the programme, and helping us deliver this much-needed support for the engineering community.”
Research has shown that individuals receiving a diagnosis for autism over the age of 21 are nearly three times as likely to suffer from psychiatric related illnesses in later life.
Stuart Redgard, a neurodivergent engineer ambassador for the programme, said: “Having received a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder in May 2022 at the age of 55, I’ve often felt very alone during my neurodiversity journey. But knowing that I now have people I can turn to and who won’t judge me has made a world of difference.
“That’s why this new support from Foothold gives me hope for neurodiverse engineers like me to be empowered to engineer their way, and take advantage of the same opportunities as neurotypical community members – no matter what stage they’re at in their career.”
The Differently Wired Hub is freely accessible to anyone in the engineering community, whether they have been diagnosed, support a neurodivergent individual, or want to learn more about neurodiversity. Students and apprentices need to apply to access tailored support, with eligible individuals able to take full advantage of the programme offering.
First seven members join NG’s Great Grid Partnership
Agreed. It is all pretentious posturing and trite branding with no meaning or gravitas. Prepare to be disappointed by all of these greats/grates.