This report documents the scoping of a Neurodivergent-Friendly Quality Mark for the Workplace (NFQM) and presents recommendations for developing this Quality Mark.

Researcher | Annette van Lamoen for Ako Aotearoa.

ISBN Online | 978-1-98-856269-8

Published | October 2025

How would a Neurodivergent-Friendly Quality Mark for the Workplace help? 

Creating workplaces where people thrive in their roles is simply the right thing to do. Both the organisation and the employees will be the better for it. It’s a win-win. Workplaces are by definition diverse, and have staff with different thinking styles and from different backgrounds, genders and ethnicities. This diversity can help organisations to grow. It can enrich teams and enhance productivity and efficiency.

To make the most of this diversity the barriers to inclusion need to be removed, as the reality is that work can be a daily struggle for some. The barriers to success are not within the people, but in workplace policies, practices and beliefs. Removing these barriers helps transform the workplace culture to one of belonging, where people’s individual potential is nurtured, differences are honoured and supported, and where diversity is celebrated and embraced.

This report includes a selection of examples of inclusive workplace practices. Putting these in place will not only benefit neurodivergent staff, but it will accommodate the needs and preferences of all staff. Becoming more responsive to different needs and perspectives will not only help an organisation reap the benefits of the unique talents that neurodivergent staff can bring. It will also be a game-changer for neurodivergent employees, enabling them to function at their best, and making them feel welcomed, heard, included, and valued.

The Neurodivergent-Friendly Quality Mark can support organisations in making these adjustments, which will help create a better workplace for all.