Our neurodivergence is our strength at DWP

Chloe McArdle and Connor Hayes are both Universal Credit (UC) review agents based in Hastings. They talk about how being neurodivergent does not stop them achieving their potential.

Chloe said: “I was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) very recently, after many years of mental health issues and feeling misunderstood. I am currently waiting for an assessment for autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

“As part of my ADHD, my thoughts are always racing and my anxiety is constantly high. I struggle with starting tasks, task-switching and communication.

“There is also something to be said about being a neurodivergent woman. Neurodivergence manifests itself differently, and for a very long time, a lot of the diagnostic criteria was based on male experiences of ADHD. I think this is why I was also diagnosed so late in life.

“As opposed to being outwardly hyperactive, I would mask my struggles with focus, attention and impulsivity. This came across as just being ‘quiet’, socially awkward and a daydreamer.

Connor explained: “I have been diagnosed with Asperger syndrome, which is part of the autistic spectrum, and suffered badly in the past as this affects my communication with others. When I was in school this was particularly bad until I got my diagnosis.

“I went through intense therapy to help with this. In previous jobs, this has been a slight hinderance on how I communicate with others, but in this role it helps.”

Many strengths

Universal Credit review agents check claims to ensure people are receiving the payments they are entitled to. For Connor this means:

“I analyse with a lot of detail, so I think this has helped me to pick up the job pretty quickly. I’m able to store knowledge and experiences and recall them. At work I get told that I’m a walking library!

“Since joining DWP, I’ve been pushed out of my comfort zone. I can be quite shy, but visiting other office sites has built my confidence in speaking to others. I’ve also deputised for my manager as a result of my increased confidence.

Chloe describes her neurodivergent strengths:

“If I switch into ‘hyperfocus’ mode, I become very efficient and productive with completing tasks. It feels so fulfilling to be able to work even though my mind works differently to other people; proving my neurodivergence does not limit me or my performance.”

Achieving potential through excellent support

Chloe’s line manager has played a key role:

“My line manager, Jo, has been amazing. When I received my diagnosis, she supported me with an occupational health referral. I worried I wouldn’t be listened to or be treated differently, but Jo is a shining example of excellent management and compassion.

“I have a Workplace Adjustment Passport in place that allows me to work in quieter locations (to minimise distractions) and have access to specialist equipment (noise-cancelling headphones). I can also block out times throughout the day to work on specific tasks. As someone with ADHD, this really helps me remain productive.

“While you wouldn’t think ADHD would require a Display Screen Equipment assessment, it has been a very useful tool for me. Due to my fidgeting, I sit in positions that affect my posture. Having a supportive chair and a footstool to stop me sitting crossed leg has reduced back pain.

Connor said: “My line managers have never seen my diagnosis as a hinderance to my job. Their patience has made me feel comfortable allowing me to ask as many questions as I needed to.

Chloe and Connor summed up the benefits to them of working for DWP.

Chloe said: “Everything has been considered with my neurodivergence in mind. I feel comfortable working in DWP and, most importantly, do not feel like I need to mask who I am.”

Connor added: “The best thing about working here is not only the job progression opportunities but how welcome I feel as a neurodivergent person. I hope, through my involvement in our recent Universal Credit review agents recruitment campaign, I can encourage others to join and experience this for themselves.”

By Chloe McArdle and Connor Hayes, DWP