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A local campaigner for autism, and other neurological conditions, has been teaching bank employees about how to recognise and work with 'neuro-diverse' individuals.
Founder of Develop Autism Jonathan Channing, who himself has autism, was recently tasked with delivering the training across Standard Bank's Jersey and Isle of Man offices.
It is estimated around 15% of the UK population is 'neurodivergent' - a category that includes people with autism, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia among other conditions that cause individuals to think differently.
Pictured: Jonathan Channing, Founder of Develop Autism and local thought leader on NeuroDiversity.
While it was once believed that such conditions could provide a hindrance in the working world, neurodivergent individuals' aptitude for creativity, innovation, and lateral and strategic thinking are now being increasingly recognised and encouraged.
Mr Channing praised Standard Bank's approach to welcoming and engaging with neurodiversity in the workplace.
"Standard Bank are embracing a unique kind of diversity training, taught by and from a NeuroDiverse person’s perspective. Standard Bank’s innovative example of moving on from just having conversations about neurodiversity, to actioning Neurodiversity Awareness Training and ensuring their employees understand neurodiversity within the organisation, is one to follow.
“Underprepared employers will ultimately face the risk of missing out on a unique talent pool by not properly understanding or harnessing the skills of neurodiverse individuals.”
Pictured: Standard Bank CEO Will Thorp, who has dyslexia himself, said the firm was "committed" to understanding all areas of diversity.
Will Thorp, Chief Executive of Standard Bank Offshore Group, who has dyslexia, added: “Standard Bank is committed to creating an inclusive, engaging and high-performance culture by understanding all areas of diversity. We look forward to implementing practices, engaging employees and encouraging conversations on neurodiversity.
“We are delighted to have had Jonathan come in to lead training in this area to ensure we understand the value of our current neurodiverse colleagues, as well as to attract and harness the skills of future neurodiverse employees.”
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