We are equipping colleagues with autism reality training to build inclusive services
We have taken another step in championing inclusion by hosting the Autism Reality Experience bus for a dedicated training day at our Solihull headquarters.
The immersive event was designed to help colleagues across customer facing teams better understand the lived experiences of autistic people, building empathy and awareness that will enhance how we support both customers and colleagues.
Colleagues participated in a powerful simulation replicating the sensory and cognitive challenges faced by many autistic people in everyday life. The session was complemented by indepth presentations and open discussion, encouraging reflection on how to create more inclusive environments and services.
While originally planned as part of preparations to welcome neurodivergent apprentices to the Digital Futures Academy, we have extended the scope to ensure the learning reaches all teams interacting with customers.
Tom Piotrowski, our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Manager said: “This training is not just about supporting apprentices, it’s about ensuring every colleague who works with customers can do so with empathy and understanding. The Autism Reality Experience provides powerful insights into the barriers autistic people face and how small changes in our approach can make a huge difference. By making this training available to customer facing colleagues, we’re embedding inclusivity into the heart of our services.”
This initiative forms part of our wider strategy to ensure our services are inclusive, customer focused and responsive to diverse needs. We now plan to roll out autism awareness training to more customer focused teams, making inclusive communication and service delivery standard practice.
Tamara Fyffe, our Director of Enterprise Solutions and a recent delegate at the training event said: “I learnt so much in the presentation about our different senses and how these can be impacted if you have autism. I felt quite unsettled during the actual experience, with some of my senses being overwhelmed; what on the surface should have felt like relatively simple activities became extremely difficult. Going forward, I will be much more aware and empathetic to people experiencing the symptoms that can manifest with autism.”
Launched in November 2024, the Digital Futures Academy is designed to open doors for individuals who may have faced barriers to traditional academic success, particularly those who are neurodiverse or have experienced challenges in classroom settings.
This innovative apprenticeship programme offers a unique and inclusive pathway into careers in digital and data technology, with a strong focus on improving customer experiences within the social housing sector.
The Academy is a cornerstone of our commitment to inclusive talent development, with a focus on accessible routes into digital careers.
Photo caption : Platform colleagues with the Autism Reality Experience bus.