*blog content provided by PayPlan

In an increasingly inclusive society, the unique perspectives of neurodivergent individuals – those with conditions such as ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia and others – are gaining recognition. Despite the progress made through education and real-life experience, there are many barriers that these individuals still experience. Below we will highlight some challenges and the support available for neurodivergent nurses and midwives, including the support available when you contact our partner PayPlan for debt advice.

Avoiding stigma and misunderstanding

One challenge is when the condition is misunderstood, leading to negative stereotypes and discrimination. For example, people with autism may be labelled as antisocial if they prefer to stay out of crowded situations, which can result in isolation and low self-esteem. Click here for the RCN’s guide for managers which can be shared with line-managers of neurodivergent individuals to improve their understanding.

Overcoming challenges in recruitment

Many workplaces have started implementing procedures to help their neurodivergent employees, and neurodivergent conditions are protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010. That being said, candidates may worry about progressing to employment due to their behavioural or communication styles during interviews, or feel nervous to ask for adjustments in the recruitment stage. The RCN have handy guides for both employers and neurodivergent candidates looking to secure a nursing or midwifery job, click here.

Thriving in employment

You will know what works for you, but sometimes there are helpful strategies you could try or reasonable adjustments you can request that will improve your experience as a working nurse or midwife. Ensure you recognise and lean on your strengths, and learn how to express when you need help with any difficulties you face. You can find specific support relating to your condition for neurodivergent nursing staff here.

Support when accessing PayPlan’s debt advice

Cavell partners with specialist debt advisers, PayPlan, to offer FREE debt help and advice. It’s a professional and confidential financial support service, through a consultation online or over the phone. There are no obligations, strings attached or hidden costs.

PayPlan’s financial advice is not just for people struggling with debt, but those worried about bills and budgeting, tips for saving money and boosting income, and improving your overall financial wellbeing. If you just need someone to talk to about money, they will lend an ear. Find out more here.

PayPlan pride themselves on being inclusive and supportive of all clients, and they have introduced the following practices:

Vulnerability support – PayPlan advisors are trained to spot vulnerabilities, offer clients the advice they need, and signpost them to organisations if necessary. They work with a wider support network and have regular training to keep their practices up to date.

Plain numbers – Many of PayPlan’s team members are plain numbers accredited, meaning they communicate numbers and the words around them clearly. This is vitally important for any documents they send out.

Coloured paper – Paperwork can be sent out on coloured paper, reducing the contrast between the text and the white background, making it easier for those with dyslexia to distinguish words. The contrast between black ink and white paper can be quite visually overwhelming, so if it is on a different-coloured background, this can reduce the visual stress of someone reading paperwork.

Different communication methods – PayPlan understand that not everyone communicates in the same way; this is why they offer many ways to receive debt advice. Clients can contact PayPlan via phone, email, live chat or WhatsApp at a time that suits them with no pressure.

WCAG, web accessibility initiative – All payplan.com webpages meet the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standard, ensuring that their web content is more accessible to people with disabilities.

If you are struggling to repay debts and feel like you need some support, call PayPlan on 0800 072 1206 between 8am – 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am – 3pm on Saturdays. Alternatively, you can visit www.payplan.com/cavell for more information.