Neurodiversity Guidelines - Special focus on PSM workforce

Introducing the new guidelines

We are thrilled to present EBU Members with these Neurodiversity Guidelines – a resource to enhance our understanding, support, and celebration of neurodivergent people and talent across our organizations.

According to research from the Neurodiversity Power Project, funded by the EU, approximately 22% of the EU population is neurodiverse, with Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), Aspergers, Autism, Tourette’s or Dyscalculia among the most common disorders. Yet these audiences remain largely underrepresented in the global media industry.

Adding to our extensive work and collaboration on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) among EBU Members and the wider media community, this toolkit embodies our shared commitment to fostering an environment in which everyone can thrive. This is fundamental to our mission as Public Service Media (PSM) organizations to serve all members of society, ensuring they feel respected and valued.

These guidelines are yet another manifestation of our commitment to supporting our Members to improve internal practices and support our people – while also broadening the content we produce and the narratives we tell.

These Guidelines provide a set of practical, actionable measures, designed to help EBU Members adapt their resources and structure to become more neuro-inclusive.

About this Report

According to research from the Neurodiversity Power Project, funded by the EU, approximately 22% of the EU population is neurodiverse, with Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), Aspergers, Autism, Tourette’s or Dyscalculia among the most common disorders. Yet these audiences remain largely underrepresented in the global media industry.

This document was inspired by EBU Members’ experiences with neurodiversity and is designed to support HR teams, hiring managers and staff members to better understand, adapt, and celebrate neurodivergent talent.

Throughout six working sessions, facilitated by Eleanor McSherry, Programme Coordinator at the University College Cork in Ireland, colleagues from 10 EBU Members have discussed and produced these practical guidelines that include accessible recruitment practices, neuro-inclusive production environments, and communication methods for creating psychologically safe workspaces.