Neurodiversity Spark Workplace Policy

Introduction

We are a lived-experience-led organisation committed to fostering a trauma-informed, neuro-inclusive, and flexible working environment. This policy outlines our approach to workplace practices, ensuring alignment with our values of autonomy, psychological safety, and belonging.

1. Workplace Model

We operate a flexible hybrid model that is remote-first, with in-person engagement based on role requirements. Our team collaborates with educational institutions, government bodies, charities, and private organisations. Activities include research, training delivery (online and in-person), workplace support, and peer support group facilitation. While some team members work entirely online, others adopt hybrid models tailored to their needs. We use Microsoft Teams and other digital tools to stay connected and collaborate effectively.

2. Working Hours

Our core hours are generally 9am to 5pm. However, we recognise the diversity of our team and the nature of our work. Freelancers, researchers, and course creators have the flexibility to work at times that suit them. Specific roles, such as facilitation and neuroinclusion support, may require set hours based on service delivery needs.

3. Employment Types

We welcome a range of employment types including full-time, part-time, freelance, and contract roles. While we do not engage volunteers due to our ethical stance as a limited company by shares, we are open to hosting interns as part of our commitment to learning and development.

4. Wellbeing and Inclusion

Our trauma-informed approach includes reflective practice, debriefing after lived experience talks, and RSD (Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria) checks. We aim to co-create personalised wellbeing packages for each team member and plan to implement tools like the ‘Do-it Profiler’ to support individual needs. All staff have access to neuroinclusion advocates and trauma-informed social worker services.

5. Communication and Technology

We use Microsoft 365, EWay CRM, and WhatsApp for communication and collaboration. As a small core team, we maintain flexibility in communication while ensuring responsiveness through our Belfast-based business landline and digital platforms.

6. Policy Development and Review

This policy is a living document and will evolve alongside our organisation. We are committed to continuous improvement and welcome feedback from our team. As we grow, we will develop additional policies on flexible working, safeguarding, mental health, and reasonable adjustments, aligning with our research partnerships and ethical standards.