Neurodiversity champion, Simon Frampton (YTL UK), on the huge opportunity for the water sector to harness the potential of people who think differently.
Simon Frampton is Resourcing Manager at YTL UK, the group that owns Wessex Water. Simon first became interested in neurodiversity after meeting an individual with autism who inspired him. That experience led him to begin to champion neurodiversity in his own workplace and then in the wider sector.
Simon believes that more should be done to make the workplace more accessible and welcoming for neurodivergent people and that by doing so, the water sector can harness a vast untapped resource at a time when increased recruitment of skilled people is vital.
In this fascinating discussion with hosts Lila Thompson (CEO, British Water) and Perminder Atwal (HR Business Partner at Xylem UK), Simon talks about how applying for jobs can be like cracking a code for those with neurodiversity. He also gives practical advice for senior leaders on how to improve recruitment and management processes.
Simon also brings to life the scale of the challenge. People with autism, for example, are at a massive statistical disadvantage when it comes to applying for jobs, getting them and then being able to thrive once in position. This episode also busts myths and shares hope for what an improved sector - with greater opportunities for neurodiverse people - could look like.