Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber is set to launch a pioneering new employer initiative designed to help businesses better understand and support neurodivergent employees in the workplace.
The Understanding Neurodivergence in the Workplace – Employer Support Pack will officially be launched by Minister of State for Mental Health, Mary Butler TD, tomorrow (Friday).
Developed specifically with Micro & SMEs in mind, the initiative provides employers with practical guidance, workplace adjustment supports, templates, manager tools and accessible information to help create more inclusive, structured and supportive workplaces for neurodivergent employees, including those with ADHD and Autism.
The Chamber believes the initiative is one of the first regionally-led employer support resources of its kind in Ireland focused specifically on practical neurodivergence workplace support for SMEs.
The project has been developed by Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber supported by with Waterford Local Enterprise Office, Buíon Phort Láirge and David Walsh Office Supplies.
Speaking ahead of the launch, Jenny Beresford, CEO of Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber, said the initiative responds to a growing need among employers seeking practical, accessible guidance around neurodiversity in the workplace.
“Businesses want to do better in this area, but many employers — particularly SMEs — are unsure where to start. There is a genuine appetite to create workplaces that are more supportive, inclusive and structured, but businesses need practical tools and clear guidance rather than complicated policies or jargon.”
She said the Chamber wanted to position the initiative as both a business support and workforce participation project.
“This is about helping businesses retain talent, support staff wellbeing and create working environments where people can contribute and thrive. Neurodivergent employees bring enormous strengths, creativity and value to workplaces, but employers often lack practical supports or confidence in navigating this area.”
“We believe initiatives like this should become part of mainstream business support nationally.”
The Support Pack includes:
- Practical workplace adjustment guidance
- Manager and communication supports
- Templates and checklists
- Legal and HR snapshots
- Guidance around workplace structure, clarity and support strategies
- Information designed specifically for smaller employers and busy workplaces
The launch event will bring together employers, business leaders and stakeholders from across the South East and reflects the Chamber’s wider focus on future workforce development, inclusive employment and practical business supports.
Minister Mary Butler TD welcomed the initiative, describing workplace inclusion and understanding as increasingly important for both employers and employees.
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