Neil Laurenson - Finding flexible working with neurodiversity, autism and ADHD, to balance work and family life

After his late diagnoses of autism and ADHD, Neil discusses how flexible working and support from colleagues have helped him thrive in his role as a Bid Writer at Sanctuary.

I joined Sanctuary in September 2022. I am a Bid Writer in Sanctuary Supported Living’s Growth & Development team. I was diagnosed as autistic in August 2023, and I received an ADHD diagnosis last January.

I am very grateful to Sanctuary for allowing flexible working. Working from home means I am in more control of my environment, and my line manager has recently sourced some noise-cancelling headphones to help me focus. At times, I have needed to be at home while my wife is at work so that I can look after our children. Sanctuary has also been flexible in terms of allowing me to attend medical appointments and seminars for the MA I recently completed.

Working in an office environment can be challenging because of the noise and potential for interruptions. I have a designated desk in the corner of the office, which allows me to see the whole office and anticipate colleagues needing my attention. I have asked colleagues to send me a Teams message or email if they need to speak with me on Teams, as I struggle to transition between tasks and I prefer to plan my day.

I recently became a committee member on Sanctuary’s Disability Network, and my line manager and colleagues have been very supportive of my efforts to help shape neurodiversity policies and resources.

For 40 years, I did not know I was an ‘AuDHDer’ (someone who is autistic with ADHD), and I thought I just had to battle through.

To be in a workplace that is prepared to make reasonable adjustments is very important for my well-being as well as my ability to fulfil my role as a Bid Writer.

Sanctuary’s culture of flexible working is ultimately a culture of mutual respect. It is a culture in which people feel accepted and able to work at their best.