By Paul Walsh, Project Lead at Guernsey Employment Trust (GET)

At some point most businesses find themselves having to think outside of the box, identify trends or scrutinise complex data.

 

These qualities, which help drive innovation and continuous improvement, are often associated with the ways of thinking and processing of information of neurodivergent people. While not every neurodivergent person will share the same strengths, these traits are frequently observed across neurodivergent communities.

Many businesses are discovering that different ways of thinking can be a powerful asset in the workplace. From exceptional attention to detail to creative problem solving and innovative ideas, neurodivergent employees bring valuable strengths that can help organisations grow and thrive.

This message sits at the heart of Neurodiversity Celebration Week, a global initiative that challenges misconceptions and celebrates the talents of people whose brains process information differently. Neurodiversity includes conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, dyslexia and dyspraxia, and is simply part of the natural variation in how people think and learn.

At Guernsey Employment Trust, we work with neurodivergent islanders every day, supporting them to build confidence, develop skills and access meaningful employment. Through our partnerships with local employers, we see first-hand how inclusive workplaces benefit both individuals and businesses, helping employers access a wider and often under-utilised talent pool.

Creating a neuroinclusive workplace does not always require major changes.

Simple reasonable adjustments can make a significant difference.

  • These might include providing clear written instructions,
  • allowing extra time to process information,
  • offering quieter workspaces,
  • adapting interview processes,
  • or breaking tasks into clear, structured steps.

In many cases, these adjustments benefit all employees, not just those who are neurodivergent.

Many Guernsey businesses already welcome and support neurodivergent employees. The latest business to welcome a neurodivergent employee is TCS, the outsourced bookkeeping and payroll company based in St. Peter Port.

Ryan (far right) and Director of TCS, Tim Chilestone (second from left)

Ryan joined TCS on a work experience programme back in November of 2025 and after a successful kickstart programme, was offered a permanent role as Payroll & EPOS Assistant.

Tim Chilestone from TCS said “Ryan joined TCS through GET Support and has been a very welcome addition to the team. We made a few small adjustments to our usual setup, such as agreeing a working schedule that suited Ryan’s needs and ensuring he wasn’t required to answer the phone.

In my experience, people often overestimate the level of accommodation neurodivergent individuals need, which can sometimes discourage employers from taking that step.  In reality, it’s usually just about applying a bit of common sense and making sure employees feel comfortable raising requests, knowing those requests will be considered.”

The work experience element of the scheme also gave Ryan the opportunity to try the working environment before committing to anything long term. I think that can make a significant difference for anyone who feels anxious or uncertain about entering employment.”

Ryan says that the office environment is very friendly and welcoming.

“I’m often quite quiet, and everyone respects that while still making sure I feel included. The business has made reasonable adjustments to support me at work. For example, I’m not required to answer the phone or attend client premises on my own. I’m also able to listen to music while working, which helps me concentrate”.

If you are a local business and would like advice on supporting neurodivergent employees or would be interested in disability awareness training for your team, please feel free to reach out to Guernsey Employment Trust.

We are always happy to support Guernsey employers in building more inclusive, diverse and resilient workplaces. Call on 247999 or email info@get.org.gg