At Bupa, we believe that everyone deserves to feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive at work. As part of our commitment to inclusion, we’re proud to spotlight the work of Liz, one of our Cognitive Behavioural Therapists, who is a passionate advocate for neurodivergent people in the workplace. 

In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Week, Liz shares her insights on how we create a more inclusive, understanding, and empowering environment for neurodivergent colleagues—and why it matters to us at Bupa. 

Why Neurodiversity Matters at Bupa 

Neurodivergent people—those with conditions such as Autism, ADHD, or a combination like AuDHD—bring unique perspectives, creativity, and problem-solving skills to the workplace. But too often, traditional work environments aren’t designed with neurodiversity in mind. 

At Bupa, we’re working to change that. 

We understand that mental health challenges can arise when neurodivergent people feel misunderstood or unsupported. That’s why we’re committed to nurturing a culture where everyone feels safe to be themselves, without the pressure to "mask" or conform to neurotypical expectations. 

What Support Looks Like at Bupa 

You don’t need a formal diagnosis to access support. We focus on what you need to thrive—because we know that small changes can make a big difference. Here are just a few ways we support our neurodivergent colleagues: 

• Workplace Adjustments: We provide technology and equipment, adjust working routines, and modify physical work environments to suit individual needs. 
• Flexible Working: Hybrid and remote options help reduce distractions and allow people to work in ways that suit them best. 
• Community and Belonging: Our internal networks such as ‘Be You at Bupa’ and wellbeing resources, like Healthy Minds and JAAQ at Work, offer safe spaces to learn, connect, and grow. 
• Inclusive Communication: We encourage open, respectful conversations about sensory needs and working preferences—because understanding starts with listening. 
• Primary Healthcare: Employees have access to our mental health helpline where they can get professional support, day or night. We offer a range of mental health services via the helpline including cognitive behavioural therapy, counselling, personal coaching and more.  
• Health Trust: Employees can opt-in to our private medical insurance benefit which includes access to neurodiversity assessments and diagnoses. 

It’s not about one-size-fits-all—it’s about listening, learning, and adapting together. 

A Culture of Listening and Learning 

Through her work at Bupa and in national voluntary roles, Liz has seen how powerful it is when neurodivergent voices are heard. Too often, stigma leads talented professionals to hide who they are. At Bupa, we’re changing that narrative. 

We’re building a workplace where neurodivergent colleagues are not only accepted but celebrated. Where their directness, creativity, and resilience are recognised as strengths. And where everyone—regardless of how they think or process the world—can grow, succeed, and feel like they belong. 

Find out more about what we’re doing around inclusion at Bupa here.