Geldards has teamed up with a neurodiversity training specialist to reduce the number of disability discrimination claims reaching the employment tribunal in what the law firm believes is the first collaboration of its kind.

The firm, which has offices in Cardiff, Derby, Nottingham and London, has partnered with NeuroUniverse to meet ‘growing demand’ from businesses to support their neurodivergent employees.

Commercial solicitor Hayley Harding, who co-founded NeuroUniverse, said awareness of neurodiversity has improved dramatically in recent years, leading to more employees disclosing their diagnosis and understanding their legal rights.

Geldards partner Lowri Phillips said that over the past year, the firm has seen a significant rise in the number of clients seeking advice on managing neurodiverse employees, particularly around grievances linked to the lack of reasonable adjustments.

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According to data provided by Geldards and NeuroUniverse, tribunals heard 102 cases last year where neurodiversity was cited as a factor in alleged discrimination – up from 70 in 2020. The number of disability discrimination cases referred to ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) has jumped by nearly a third between 2023 and 2024.

Phillips said: ‘Many organisations struggle with confidence and knowledge in this area, meaning issues are often ignored until they escalate into formal disputes. There is an urgent need to raise awareness and equip employers with the right tools to provide early support before conflicts arise.’

Family lawyers were issued with landmark guidance from the judiciary last week on supporting neurodivergent people in proceedings to help them adopt best practice.