Understanding Neurodiversity in Farming Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in how people think, learn, and process information. It includes conditions such as dyslexia, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and more. While around 14% of the UK population is neurodivergent, a landmark Farmers Weekly survey revealed that 36% of respondents in agriculture identify as neurodivergent—more than double the national average. This striking figure highlights a unique opportunity for the farming sector to embrace diverse thinking. Neurodivergent individuals often bring strengths such as creativity, resilience, attention to detail, and entrepreneurial flair—traits that are invaluable in agriculture. De Lacy Executive’s Commitment to Inclusion For over 25 years, De Lacy Executive Recruitment has matched talent with agricultural roles. Through this work, we’ve seen firsthand how neurodivergent individuals thrive in farming environments—yet face barriers in traditional recruitment processes. CV writing and formal interviews can be particularly challenging for those with dyslexia or ADHD. Spelling errors or unconventional communication styles are often misinterpreted, causing employers to overlook capable candidates. At De Lacy, we’ve adapted our approach by offering initial phone calls, accepting alternative formats like videos or portfolios, and focusing on practical assessments. We believe that inclusive recruitment isn’t just ethical—it’s essential for unlocking talent and driving innovation in agriculture. Creating Neuroinclusive Workplaces Employers can take simple but powerful steps to support neurodivergent employees: • Flexible roles: Allow staff to focus on strengths and delegate tasks that pose challenges. 10 25 Years of De Lacy Executive recruitment LEVEL THE FIELD Championing Neurodiversity in Agriculture
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