As more organisations shift back to in-office work full time, a growing number of neurodivergent employees, including those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or sensory processing differences are quietly disengaging or looking elsewhere. Rigid return-to-office mandates are creating friction, burnout, and talent loss.

If you lead people, manage diverse teams, or shape organisational policy, this blog will help you understand why hybrid and flexible work arrangements are increasingly essential and how to respond strategically.

The Rise of Neurodivergent Identity in the Workplace

• Research indicates that nearly 50% of Gen Z identify as neurodivergent or having mental health differences. This generation expects workplaces to accommodate varied ways of thinking and working.

• Employers who ignore neurodivergent preferences risk losing top talent especially those who thrive with autonomy, structured environments, and minimal sensory overload.

Why Hybrid Work Supports Neurodivergent Employees

1. Sensory and Environmental Control

Open-plan offices, fluorescent lighting, or constant noise can be draining. Working from home or in quieter spaces allows individuals to better manage sensory input and focus.

2. Predictable Routines and Transitions

Frequent distractions and transit can make moving between tasks difficult to manage. Hybrid schedules offer structure and fewer transitions, which benefits many neurodivergent thinkers.

3. Greater Autonomy Over Breaks and Timing

People with ADHD, for example, may need short breaks to reset focus. A flexible schedule allows them to work when they function best without feeling judged.

The Hidden Cost of Enforcing Full-Time Office Return

• Increased burnout: Many neurodivergent employees report fatigue from sensory overload and social masking at work.

• Reduced retention: If hybrid work is a non-negotiable for neurodivergent talent, inflexible policies may push them to leave.

• Lower productivity: For neurodivergent individuals, performance often improves with autonomy—not surveillance or rigid schedules.

Tip for leaders: Rigid workplaces may appear consistent on paper, but they undermine the unique strengths neurodivergent employees can bring.

How Employers Can Build Neuroinclusive Hybrid Policies

Involve Neurodivergent Staff in Decision Making

Gather feedback through surveys or focus groups. Ask team members:

• What schedule helps them perform best?

• Which environments are most comfortable?

• What hybrid features help reduce anxiety or overwhelm?

Offer a “Remote-by-Default” Clauses with Exceptions

There are some really fantastic organisations out there that have set a Remote-by-Default clause in their policy. This model supports flexibility while allowing in-person collaboration when essential. For example:

“Team meetings are primarily held virtually unless everyone is together on site. Documented notes are always provided.”

Provide Sensory-Friendly Office Options

When employees are in the office, make sure quiet rooms, desk partition options, or noise-cancelling headphones are available. These little touches support focus and comfort.

Clarify Expectations – Don’t Make Assumptions

State what needs to be done, not where. If a role truly requires in-person work, explain why. If not, trust hybrid schedules without penalty—so long as outcomes are met.

Case Examples from Leading Employers

• SAP’s Autism at Work Program gives neurodivergent employees flexible start times, remote work options, and sensory accommodations—yielding higher retention and performance.

• EY’s Neuro-Diverse Centre of Excellence informs their hybrid policies based on feedback from neurodivergent colleagues.

• Microsoft’s neuroinclusive teams report increased innovation when hybrid and flexible work are standard.

These models show that flexibility drives results—not hinders them.

What HR and DEI Professionals Should Do Next

At Enna, we partner with organisations to:

• Audit current RTO and hybrid policies for neuro-inclusivity

• Facilitate workshops with managers and DEI teams

• Co-create hybrid frameworks grounded in lived experience

• Provide staff learning packs and ongoing support

Start by booking a free mini audit of your hybrid working policy or sign up for manager training to launch your neuroinclusive workplace strategy.

Final Thoughts

Neurodivergent employees aren’t asking for beach access they’re asking for environments where their unique working styles can succeed. In 2025 and beyond, the ability to thrive isn’t about being in the office full time— t’s about working in a way that fits how people think.

Investing in hybrid flexibility isn’t just kind. It’s smart.