Gold for neurodiversity inclusion at St Oswald’s Hospice

We’re really proud to share that St Oswald’s Hospice has achieved Gold status in the Autistica Neurodiversity Employers Index (NDEI®) – the highest level of accreditation.

This recognises the commitment across our organisation to creating a workplace where neurodivergent colleagues feel supported, understood and valued.

The NDEI®, delivered by leading autism charity Autistica, is a nationally recognised benchmark for neuroinclusive employment. In the 2025 assessment, we achieved a score of 85 out of 100, improving on last year’s score of 77.

This reflects the continued progress being made across the Hospice, including:

Leigh's photo 2

Leigh Marrs, Head of Learning and Organisational Development and Chair of our EDI Group, shared:

“Achieving Gold is a significant milestone for the Hospice. It reflects the commitment of colleagues across the organisation to creating a workplace where people feel supported, understood and valued.

“While it’s important to recognise the progress we’ve made, inclusion is an ongoing journey. We remain committed to listening, learning and continuing to improve.”

We’re already seeing the impact of this work across teams.

Jess Casey_IM&T_Developer_St_Oswald's_Hospice

Jess, IM&T Software Developer, explained:

“St Oswald’s Hospice has such a supportive working environment that I feel comfortable being open about who I am. Simple things like hybrid working and small workplace adjustments have made a big difference to how I work and how supported I feel.

“Because of that support, I’m able to focus on doing my job well. I develop apps that help make day-to-day processes across the Hospice quicker and easier, which feels really rewarding.

“With the right understanding and support in place, autistic people bring real strengths to the workplace – and it’s reassuring to work somewhere that genuinely values that.”

Vickie Howd_Housekeeper_St_Oswald's_Hospice

Vickie, who is autistic and works in our Housekeeping team, also shared:

“I have reasonable adjustments such as sensory breaks and coloured glasses, which help with light and sensory overload. The glasses were provided by the Hospice, and I feel much less anxious and overwhelmed by my environment now.”

Thank you

This achievement belongs to all colleagues across the Hospice who are helping to build a more inclusive, supportive workplace every day.

Find out more about working and volunteering at the Hospice.

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