Understanding minds that work differently

Not everyone’s brain works the same way – and if they did, how boring would life be? 

Some people experience the world differently because of neurodivergent conditions like autism, ADHD or dyslexia. These aren’t flaws, just different ways of thinking, sensing and processing.  

But the world isn’t always built for these differences, and that can make everyday life harder than it needs to be. Understanding how your mind works – and being understood by others – can be life-changing. 

Ahead of World Autism Awareness Day on Wednesday 2 April, this month’s Connect shines a light on neurodiversity and how to find the right support. 

Neurodivergent: a quick definition 

Neurodivergent is a broad term used to describe people whose brains work in ways that differ from what's considered typical — for example in how they think, learn, process information or respond to the world around them.

It includes autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia and Tourette's, and everyone’s experience is different. That makes it a big, complex topic, and we’re only really scratching the surface here. 

By numbers: The need for awareness and support

It’s estimated as many as 1 in 5 people in the UK are neurodivergent 

(Source: Bupa)

That’s millions of people whose education, careers and wellbeing depend on how well they’re understood and supported.

Given the opportunity, people with neurodivergent conditions can thrive: 

• Better progress in education:
  Neurodivergent students with personalised support plans perform 30% better (Source: University of Edinburgh) 

• Stronger performance at work:
  At JPMorgan Chase, neurodivergent hires were 90–140% more productive than long-serving peers (Source: JPMorgan Chase) 

• A competitive edge:  
  77% of execs say neurodiversity gives their organisation an advantage (Source: Harvard Business Review) 

• Leadership potential:  
  45% of boardroom executives identify as neurodivergent (Source: CYPHER Learning) 

But too many still face barriers:

• No adjustments at work:  
  Over a third (36%) of neurodivergent employees say they don't get the help they need (Source: City & Guilds) 

• Stigma still holds them back: 
  96% of people with ADHD feel uncomfortable disclosing their diagnosis to an employer (Source: Takeda) 

• Parents feel the impact:  
  36% of employees with neurodivergent children say it affects their work – yet 28% of employers offer them no help (Source: City & Guilds) 

• Early risks:  
  Without school adjustments, students face higher rates of bullying, exclusion and mental health issues (Source: Ford et al., Fink et al., Aitken & Wang) 

The challenges start early and, for many families, diagnosis is the first hurdle.

Did you know?

Demand for children’s autism assessments has surged 300% since the pandemic

(Source: Centre for Young Lives) 

With greater awareness of neurodivergence, more families are seeking assessments – often the gateway to wider support in education, healthcare and daily life. 

But NHS services are under pressure. An estimated 400,000 children in England are currently waiting for an initial assessment, and long waits often mean delays in getting help. This puts children’s health and education at risk — and for parents, especially those who can’t bypass the system by going private, it can be a major source of stress. 

The system can be complex, but help is available.  

Guide: 5 ways to get the right support for your child

If you're a parent caring for a neurodivergent child, understanding what support is out there can help you access it sooner. Here are five key steps to explore: 

1. Get school support without a diagnosis 

Your child doesn’t need a formal diagnosis to receive extra help at school. If they’re struggling, speak to their teacher or the special educational needs (SEN) coordinator to arrange reasonable adjustments like extra time in exams or specialist study equipment. Sometimes, a SEN Support Plan or an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) may be an option. Scope has more useful info.  

2. Use your ‘Right to Choose’  

If NHS waiting lists in your area are too long, you have a legal right to be able to choose an alternative healthcare provider for things like ADHD or autism assessments. ADHD UK has a useful guide on how this works. 

3. Find local advice through SENDIASS 

Every local authority in England has a Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Information, Advice and Support Service (SENDIASS). They offer free, confidential advice to parents and carers on things like school support, education plans, and navigating the system. Find your local SENDIASS here. 

4. Check if you’re eligible for financial help 

If your child needs extra care or support, you may be able to claim Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to help with costs. Older children may qualify for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), while Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) can help cover study-related expenses. The benefits system is complex, and changes are due in 2026, so it’s important to stay informed. In addition to state support, charities like Family Fund offer grants for things like home adaptations or sensory toys.  

5. Know your rights and where to turn

Many parents tell us that having good information is a game changer when it comes to advocating for their child. Understanding your rights and available support can be empowering, so we’ve included a list of helpful resources at the end of this email. 

Insights from our community

Getting diagnosed as an adult 

Many adults spend years feeling misunderstood or masking their differences – without realising they’re neurodivergent.  

A diagnosis can bring clarity and self-understanding, but as is the case with children, getting one isn’t always easy. 

As of September 2024, over 200,000 people in England were waiting for an autism assessment – a 25% rise in a year. 

Private healthcare often means shorter waits, and some banks offer policies that cover assessments. But not all private diagnoses are NHS-recognised. We've also heard from clients who’ve had to cover medication costs after leaving their job and losing their policy. 

Remember you also have the 'Right to Choose' an alternative NHS provider if local services are overstretched. 

Once diagnosed, your employer must provide reasonable adjustments like flexible hours, quiet spaces or assistive tech. ACAS explains more. 

Useful resources

Need more information? If you’re a current or former bank worker, our Helpline team can talk you through things like assessments, benefits and grants. Call 0800 0234 834 (Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm). 

These organisations also offer expert advice and support: 

For parents and carers: 

• Caudwell Children – offers information and support on autism assessments for parents and carers 

• Find your local SENDIASS for confidential advice for families on education and support 

• SOS!SEN – practical help for parents applying for Education, Health and Care Plans

• IPSEA – legal advice on your child’s education rights 

For specific conditions: 

• Ambitious about Autism – support for autistic children, young people and families 

• National Autistic Society – guidance and resources for autistic people and those around them 

• ADHD UK – information on diagnosis and support, including your Right to Choose 

• ADHD Foundation – awareness events for families, educators and employers 

• British Dyslexia Association – tips and resources for dyslexia and dyscalculia 

• Tourettes Action – Helpdesk and peer support groups for people with Tourette syndrome 

For workers:

• ACAS – clear advice on reasonable adjustments in the workplace 

For more help on your mental and physical health, check out our Health and Wellbeing hub.