As the year draws to a close, a high-profile case reminds us of the real-world impact of how we understand and support neurodiversity in the workplace.
A recent tribunal ruling found that describing a colleague as “disorganised”—in the context of ADHD—can amount to disability discrimination under UK employment law. The case involved Nicole Hogger, a public relations professional who was criticised for missing calls and meetings after being diagnosed with ADHD. The Employment Tribunal in Cambridge concluded that such remarks could undermine dignity and create a hostile environment, and it upheld Hogger’s claims of disability harassment, discrimination, and unfair constructive dismissal against Genesis PR.
Key takeaways from the case
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ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions can affect time management, task initiation, and communication patterns.
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Insensitive or stigmatizing language about neurodiversity can contribute to a discriminatory workplace culture.
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Without practical steps to accommodate and support employees, organisations risk ongoing disputes, reduced engagement, and reputational harm.
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Reasonable adjustments and open conversations about neurodiversity can help prevent discriminatory outcomes and support performance.
Why employers should invest in a Neurodiversity Course with Sanitas Hub
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Comprehensive, inclusive training: Our Neurodiversity Course covers a spectrum of neurodivergent profiles, their strengths, and practical strategies to foster inclusion across teams.
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Equality Act module: A dedicated segment on the Equality Act 2010 (and applicable jurisdictional equivalents) clarifies rights, responsibilities, and the importance of reasonable adjustments to support disabled employees.
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Real-world relevance: The course uses practical scenarios, checklists, and guidance for managers and colleagues on communication, workload planning, and performance management.
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Risk mitigation and culture: Training helps reduce the risk of discrimination claims, while building a more engaged and loyal workforce.
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Measurable impact: Improved retention, higher job satisfaction, and more effective collaboration across diverse teams.
What you’ll find in the Sanitas Hub CPD Neurodiversity Course
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Neurodiversity foundations: What neurodiversity means, common neurotypes, and how they can manifest in everyday work.
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Inclusive communication: Techniques for clear, respectful dialogue and adaptable collaboration.
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Reasonable adjustments: Concrete examples (adjusted workloads, flexible scheduling, quiet/workspace options, assistive tech) and how to implement them.
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Performance and feedback: Fair, strengths-based performance management that recognises diverse working styles.
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Equality Act module: Rights, responsibilities, documentation practices, and how to conduct inclusive HR processes.
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Practical tools: Onboarding checklists, ongoing support plans, and templates to embed inclusive practices.
Why this matters in practice
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The Hogger case demonstrates how critical it is to respond to ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions with understanding, appropriate support, and clear communication.
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A well-designed neurodiversity program helps prevent misinterpretations of performance, supports employee wellbeing, and strengthens organisational resilience.
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The Equality Act module ensures teams understand legal obligations and how to implement accommodations that are fair and effective.
As we close out the year, we extend heartfelt thanks to all our delegates who have trained with us this year. Your commitment to learning and fostering inclusive workplaces makes a lasting difference.
Wishing you a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year filled with health, happiness, and continued success.
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For further inquiries, company group training or mental health consultancy please do not hesitate to get in touch at info@sanitashub.co.uk
