Breaking stereotypes and embracing the power of thinking differently

At E.ON, we’re proud to embrace neurodiversity and champion an inclusive workplace where everyone can succeed.

Around 15-20% of the population is neurodivergent, yet no two people experience neurodiversity in the same way. Neurodifferences often co-occur, meaning someone might have both Dyslexia and ADHD, for example. While labels tend to focus on challenges, it’s essential to shift the perspective toward celebrating the strengths and talents that neurodivergent individuals bring. By adopting a person-centred approach—tailoring strategies to individual needs—we can create environments where neurodivergent people truly thrive.

Neurodiversity encompasses conditions such as Autism, Dyslexia, ADHD, Dyspraxia, and Dyscalculia, highlighting that no two people experience the world in the same way. Rather than viewing these differences as obstacles, we see them as unique IN in our workforce. That’s why we’re committed to fostering an environment where everyone contributes their best work.

As part of our dedication, E.ON has joined Neurodiversity in Business (NiB), which is an initiative to help ensure greater workplace inclusion of the neurodivergent community.

Insights from our Neurodiversity Network

Our colleague-led Neurodiversity Network is contributing towards an inclusive workplace where neurodiversity is celebrated, valued, and embraced, ensuring that every individual can thrive, contribute their unique talents, and achieve their full potential.

Anthony Ainsworth, Chief Operating Officer of npower Business Solutions and board sponsor of E.ON’s Neurodiversity and adaptABILITY Networks, shares his thoughts:

"Embracing neurodiversity isn’t just about inclusion – it’s about unlocking the full potential of our workforce. Different ways of thinking drive innovation, problem-solving, and creativity. At E.ON, we’re committed to fostering an environment where everyone can thrive, and I’m proud to support our neurodiverse network championing this."

Our commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace is exemplified by our Neurodiversity Network. This colleague-led group aims to create an environment where neurodiversity is celebrated, valued, and embraced, ensuring that every individual can thrive and contribute their unique talents.

John Martin, Coventry Solutions Strategy and Co-ordination Lead, describes the Neurodiversity Network as: "Open, emotional, inspiring, honest, and challenging. We always provide time for members to share their stories and their personal background. The importance of listening and having time for each other is a key part of the network, and one that we make sure we prioritise."

Neurodiversity Celebration Week at E.ON

This week, we’ve been holding an exciting series of events to raise awareness, encourage learning, and provide support:

• Neurodiversity Network Webinar: Digital Tools & Co-Pilot
  An internal webinar exploring how technology can support both neurodivergent and neurotypical colleagues.
• Ask Me Anything (AMA) sessions
  Quick, 15-minute chats where colleagues are encouraged to share their personal experiences with neurodiversity and answer any questions
• Information stands across our offices
  Our stands will be at our offices in Nottingham, Coventry, Kingswinford, Solihull, Bolton, Leicester and London, enabling colleagues to explore resources, obtain materials and find support.
• Engaging sessions on Neurodiversity
  We’re hosting a variety of sessions throughout the week on different aspects of neurodiversity.

Championing neurodivergent talent

By recognising and celebrating neurodiversity, we create a more inclusive, equitable, and empowering workplace where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

We’re proud that our commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace has secured us a spot on the Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers List for the ninth consecutive year. In 2023, we achieved an outstanding eighth place.

Let’s challenge misconceptions, champion neurodivergent talent, and make a real difference together.