Here at FAC, we believe it is vital to create an inclusive and fair hiring process to ensure that all candidates are able to perform to the best of their ability. Through FAC’s Safer Recruitment Policy we aim to create a hiring process that celebrates neurodiversity and removes any additional potential barriers for individuals.

It is also a legal requirement for employers to make reasonable adjustments for any prospective applicants or workers if they have a disability. FAC will work closely with the apprentices to ensure any information about reasonable adjustments is communicated

appropriately to employers during the hiring process and over the course of the apprenticeship.

See further government guidance.

Why is inclusive recruitment important?

1 in 7 people in the UK are neurodiverse.

Without considering neurodiversity, employers run the risk of excluding and losing talent, enforcing an alienating workplace culture, and a loss of creativity and innovation. Neurodiverse candidates bring unique skills and perspectives that can be valuable to your organisation. To ensure a fair and inclusive hiring process for neurodiverse candidates, it's essential to implement best practices and provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.

Best Practice

We strongly urge any employers who are looking to hire a FAC apprentice to follow current best practice for inclusive recruitment for all applicants, not just those who are neurodiverse:

1. Awareness and Education:

• Ensure that your hiring team is educated about neurodiversity and the specific conditions that may be present in neurodiverse candidates (e.g., autism, ADHD, dyslexia).
• Offer training sessions to increase awareness, sensitivity, and understanding among your staff.

2. Clear Communication:

• Use clear, plain language in job postings and all communication with candidates (including for those for whom English is not their first language)
• Provide detailed information about the application and interview process in a clear and accessible format beforehand

3. Flexible Application Process: