Neurodiversity in Construction (2023)

Introduction

The NFB and CITB are both committed to improving the construction industry for the current workforce and new entrants, but little is known about the prevalence of neurodiversity in the sector. To understand how many of those working in the industry are neurodiverse, and the challenges and hurdles they face, the NFB commissioned research undertaken by market research company OnePoll between 20 March and 30 March 2023. The survey sampled 1000 UK adults working in the construction industry. The findings of the research and recommendations for improving the accessibility and experience of neurodiverse workers in the construction industry are set out fully in this report.

What is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity is the term used to describe the different ways in which people’s brains function, learn and process information, not better, not worse, simply different. It is also commonly used to describe a range of medical diagnoses. The most common neurodiverse conditions include:

• Autism, or Autism Spectrum Conditions
• ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) & ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder)
• Dyscalculia
• Dyslexia
• Dyspraxia, or Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)