The toolkit features a guide to starting conversations around neurodiversity and how reasonable adjustments can be made to working environments. Hospitals and healthcare settings can be a challenging place for neurodivergent staff owing to the design of buildings and environments, the processes and systems that are used, and sometimes the nature of the service.

It’s estimated that one in seven people are neurodivergent, meaning they may think, communicate, process and interpret information differently to neurotypical people.

Toria King, head of equality, diversity and inclusion at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We recognise the invaluable contributions of our neurodivergent staff. Their unique perspectives and talents not only enrich our workplace but also enhance the quality of care we provide for our diverse patient community.

“By understanding the barriers that some of our staff may face, we can start to remove them so that they can come to work and thrive as themselves, without needing to ‘mask’ who they are.”

Some examples of neurodivergent conditions that the toolkit covers are: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD); Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD); dyslexia; and Tourette’s syndrome.

In recognition of UK Disability History Month, which is celebrated this year from 16 November to 16 December, the Trust has launched a reasonable adjustment passport; hosted a session on access to work; provided a lunch and learn session on hearing impairments; and shared e-learning with staff on visual impairments.

The Trust has also launched a colleague support group, where neurodivergent colleagues and family members of those who are neurodivergent can share advice and support others who understand their situation. The first group session, held on 29 November, saw more than 30 members of staff, made up of neurodivergent staff, managers, and parents, come together to talk about access to work, adjustments that can and should be made, accessing resources, and what more can be done to boost support.

Sean Griffiths, plaster technician at the Trust, said: “It was great to see so many people attend the launch off our new network. Hopefully we can help staff and also help our patients and family members.”

Jessica Cooke, an enhanced care and support team specialist co-ordinator at the Trust, said: “It’s nice to feel you are not alone working in an acute hospital setting having other colleagues who are also neurodivergent. Through this group we’ll be able to gain insight and raise awareness of what support is available and learning from each other on how to approach topics within the workplace, and how we all have felt using our past experiences.

“It’s important to understand that staff members who are neurodivergent can still maintain high standards and get to the end goal in their work, but that their methods and approaches may differ from other staff members – this should be celebrated.”

The group will aim to meet in person each month, while a new virtual channel will also be set up for staff to keep in touch.