What Is Neurodivergence?
Neurodivergence is an umbrella term that describes people whose brains process, learn, and behave differently from what’s considered “neurotypical.” Neurodivergence brings unique strengths that are valuable to any workforce, including creativity, problem-solving, focus, empathy, and innovation. But it also means that traditional approaches to work, communication, and wellbeing don’t always fit, and that’s why inclusive wellness policies can make a powerful difference.
What’s the Difference Between Neurodiverse and Neurodivergent?
An individual can be neurodivergent, but only a group can be neurodiverse. Recognising this helps shape more accurate and respectful language and policy.
- Neurodiverse
- Describes a population that includes people with a range of different neurotypes (both neurotypical and neurodivergent).
- Neurodivergent
- Refers to an individual whose brain functions differently from what’s considered typical.
Why Your Employee Wellness Policy Must Be ND Inclusive
Neurodivergent (ND) employees make up a significant proportion of the UK workforce, with estimates suggesting around 15–20% of people are neurodivergent.
Yet, many corporate wellness policies unintentionally exclude them. Traditional wellness programmes often assume that everyone engages with exercise, mindfulness, nutrition, or social activities in the same way. But for ND employees, sensory environments, communication styles, and routines can make or break participation.
A non-inclusive wellness offer can unintentionally reinforce stress, anxiety, and disengagement. Conversely, ND-inclusive wellness policies can improve retention, wellbeing, and performance by showing employees that you see and support them as individuals.
Creating an Inclusive Employee Wellness Strategy
Research shows that exercise and movement can significantly improve mental clarity, emotional regulation, and focus. But your employee wellness benefits must be designed with neurodivergence in mind.
Understanding Neurodivergent Needs
The first step is understanding ND employees’ needs due to heightened sensory sensitivity, difficulty with executive functioning, or social anxiety.
For example:
- Bright lights, loud music, or crowded fitness classes may feel overwhelming.
- Group activities might create stress for those with social anxiety or communication differences.
- Changes in routine can derail motivation or consistency.
Why ND People Need Wellness Support
Neurodivergent people are statistically more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and burnout. Physical activity, balanced nutrition, and restorative habits like sleep and stress management can make a huge difference, but only if they feel able to engage and supported to stay.
Wellness benefits that acknowledge sensory and cognitive needs empower ND employees to build healthy habits.
Employers can make a difference by offering flexibility and choice. That could mean:
- Access to fitness facilities with quiet or low-sensory workout environments.
- Flexible fitness passes instead of fixed classes or locations.
- Including swimming, walking, yoga, and other low-pressure activities.
- Allowing employees to choose the timing and style of their wellbeing activities.
The Benefits of Having a Truly Inclusive Employee Wellness Approach
A neuroinclusive wellness strategy isn’t just the right thing to do (although that’s important!) – it’s also good business sense.
- Better engagement and retention – ND employees who feel supported are more likely to stay loyal, engaged, and motivated.
- Improved innovation and creativity – neurodivergent thinkers bring fresh perspectives and ideas, and supporting their wellbeing maximises this.
- Reduced burnout and absenteeism – ND-friendly wellness initiatives reduce stress and support recovery, cutting sickness absence and improving performance.
- Positive culture and reputation – inclusivity strengthens your employer brand and demonstrates commitment to diversity and belonging.
Practical Strategies for ND-Inclusive Wellbeing Benefits
The way you talk about wellness matters. Make sure your internal communications are clear, consistent, and predictable, avoiding last-minute changes or assumptions about participation. Offer visual or written materials alongside spoken messages.
Peer-led wellness initiatives can be a great strategy. ND employees may respond better to smaller group activities or colleagues who understand their experiences.
Specific Exercise Considerations for ND Employees
When choosing and promoting your employee wellness benefits, consider the specific needs of different ND groups. These include:
- Autism – offer low-sensory environments (natural light, quiet spaces, fewer mirrors, predictable routines).
- ADHD – provide flexibility and variety including short bursts of activity or different forms of exercise.
- Dyslexia and dyspraxia – use visual instructions, demonstrations, or PTs who can adapt movements or language.
Training for HR and Wellbeing Leads
It’s vital that you train your HR teams, managers, and wellbeing champions in neurodiversity awareness. This helps them have informed conversations and adapt workplace wellness policies accordingly. Improvements in awareness can have a big impact on accessibility and participation.
How to Communicate the Benefits of Wellness and Fitness to ND Employees
When promoting your wellness benefits, remember that language and delivery can impact participation.
- Use simple, concrete language – avoid abstract phrases (“smash your goals” or “step outside your comfort zone”).
- Provide different formats – written, visual, and video explainers of how to access benefits.
- Offer choice and autonomy – emphasise that participation is flexible, not mandatory or competitive.
- Respect sensory preferences – promote quiet hours, accessible facilities, or flexible scheduling.
- Focus on wellbeing outcomes – talk about clarity, calm, confidence, and energy, not body image or transformation.
Flexible Wellness Benefits For An Inclusive Workplace
Neurodiversity awareness isn’t a nice add-on to your employee wellness strategy, it’s vital. Statistics prove that every workforce will have ND people in every team and at every level throughout the organisation.
Ready to make your wellness benefits appealing and inclusive for all employees?
Contact the Hussle team today to explore flexible fitness memberships that adapt to your workforce and their unique needs.
