Soundproof booths and mental health days needed for employees, HR experts say

Soundproof booths and mental health days needed for employees, HR experts say
A new report has revealed the changes that need to be made in the workplace to accommodate the needs of the upcoming generation.
Workplaces are being urged to adapt their environment to needs of the workforce
(Image: Getty Images )
HR specialists are encouraging employers to introduce sound-proof work booths and designated mental health days off to cater for the needs of the emerging generation in the workplace.
They recommend creating an environment where everyone can thrive. It includes offering flexible work schedules, promoting regular breaks, and implementing mentorship programmes.
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The study commissioned by Benenden Health, which surveyed 500 HR professionals, revealed that a staggering 77% are taking steps to ensure their workplaces are suitable for neurodivergent individuals.
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These recommendations were part of a report aimed at highlighting how employers can better support Generation Alpha as they join the workforce.
Benenden Health's Chief People Officer, Mike Hay, stated: "It is important to understand and support neurodivergent individuals, including those within Generation Alpha, who will make up a growing part of the workforce."
"Communication is key," he further added, "creating space for open, two-way conversations where employees feel safe to disclose their needs is essential, especially for those who may have faced stigma in the past."
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Eight in ten recognise the importance of workplace adjustments
(Image: Getty Images )
Dan Harris from the organisation also commented: "Autism diagnosis has increased by almost 800% in 20 years and other neurodivergent diagnoses are also on the rise. Businesses of the future need to adapt to this and are set to fail if they don't bring in measures to support these individuals."
These measures include fostering open dialogue, advocating for regular breaks, and endorsing flexible working schedules.
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Mike commented: "In the next five years, the workforce will be the most diverse it has ever been, and we need to acknowledge that it takes time to learn and adapt our workplaces and leadership styles to support everyone's needs."
A substantial 81% acknowledge the significance of these adjustments, suggesting a universal need for every individual to feel supported in order for productivity and creativity to truly thrive.
Most young people would seek out a workforce that took neurodiversity into account
(Image: Getty Images )
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Over two-thirds have seen an increase in employees asking for reasonable adjustments in the workplace over the past year to meet their needs.
This view was echoed by those aged between 13 and 18, as a survey of 500 teenagers showed six out of 10 know with someone who is neurodivergent. Meanwhile, a fifth speak to their parents about neurodiversity on a regular basis.
More than half of parents believe this openness is attributed to a growing awareness of what neurodiversity is and what adjustments may be needed.
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Mike added: "This report is more than research. It is a starting point for meaningful change."

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