Maisie Cass of Diversity Does features in the latest episode of Dandelion Video Production’s What Do You Do? podcast, addressing one of the most significant blind spots in modern workplace management.
Research suggests that 70% of managers believe they are doing enough to support neurodivergent employees – yet only 30% of neurodivergent staff agree. Maisie told host Adam Hanslow-Smith that bridging this gap is at the heart of what she does.
“Support doesn’t have to be perfect,” Maisie explains. “It’s about intentionality, ongoing conversations, and a little bit of experimentation.” She emphasises that organisations shouldn’t wait for employees to disclose a formal diagnosis before making adjustments – under the Equality Act 2010, support should be available regardless of whether someone has a label.
One of Maisie’s most practical tools are “lunch and learn” sessions – low-pressure conversations designed to gauge existing understanding and give employees direct insight into what neurodiversity looks like in everyday life. Her finding is that almost everyone is accepting of neurodivergent conditions. The barrier is knowing how to be more neuroinclusive in practice.
Crucially, Maisie frames neurodiversity support as a business strategy, not just a wellbeing initiative. Small adjustments that benefit neurodivergent employees frequently benefit the entire workforce, fostering a culture of understanding and collaboration that improves performance across the board.
The full episode is available on YouTube, Spotify, Amazon Music and Apple Podcasts. Visit Dandelion’s website for this episode and more.