SME News Q3 2024/ 16 Empowering Neurodiversity in the Workforce For individuals with neurodivergent conditions, the workplace can present various challenges and finding employment can a struggle. As someone with lived experiences of these conditions, Stephanie Ward established her business to help like-minded individuals thrive and contribute to innovation in society. In the wake of its win, we speak to Stephanie about the vital role her company plays in empowering neurodiverse talent. Stephanie Ward Online Business Services provides specialist support for the disabled and neurodiverse workforce to help them unlock their potential. Its compassionate services include everything from Access to Work support to Marketing and Productivity support. Stephanie has built a dedicated team with lived experience of these conditions and diverse skillsets. The team act as virtual assistants, covering everything inhouse, excluding accountancy and legal services, and tailoring services to all industries. At its core, the business emphasises kindness and inclusion and strives to consistently exceed expectations. “Working our magic so you can work yours.” Stephanie Ward shares, “We provide Specialist Neurodiversity Support Workers to adults with ADHD, ASD, and other neurodivergent conditions. This includes dyspraxia, dyscalculia, dyslexia, and sensory processing issues. Our team provide personalised expert services to ensure these wonderful people can stay well and in work, in a sustainable way for their disability. “Many of our clients are self-employed and have not thrived due to their disability obstructing progress. By working with us, barriers are removed, and they can have the business of their dreams. One client had been struggling as a freelancer for 20+ years before her ADHD/ ASD diagnosis. She came to me for help and within 18 months, she was VAT registered!” As a neurodivergent individual, Stephanie has spent her life fighting the system and understands the importance of embracing differences to achieve success. Stephanie Ward Online Business Services is a pioneer of this type of support and prides itself on offering flexible services and employment opportunities within its own organisation. Staff are provided with a range of accessibility modifications such as flexible working, reasonable adjustments to working hours and environment, and practical support to apply for government disability support. The UK’s adult ADHD services are currently in crisis due to long waiting times and a national supply shortage of ADHD medication. Partially due to the increase in global demand, those who have been prescribed medication are now going without. Due to the significant increase in ADHD diagnoses, more people are attempting to utilise the government’s Access to Work programme to receive assistance. Stephanie Ward Online Business Services supports individuals with their Access to Work applications, helping them to manage forms and communicate effectively with their case managers. The team respects every client as an individual, helping them to find solutions to their unique problems and create systems that provide clarity. Stephanie and her team are virtual assistants for conditions such as ADHD and Autism, advocating for neuroinclusion at work to help organisations unlock their full potential. With its extensive expertise, Stephanie Ward Online Business Services can position clients and their businesses for success and help them achieve business sustainability. On her experience, Joanne shares, “Stephanie is a rare find – She is genuine! What you see is what you get! She is the first person who listened to my business needs – without trying to sell to me. Newcastle’s best kept secret!” Alice adds, “Steph is the most customerfocused businesswoman I’ve ever had the honour of meeting. Her ability to deliver a fantastic quality service, with the bonus of a cracking sense of humour, and also meeting all budget requirements, is second to none. I’d recommend her to anyone needing any help.” In July 2024, Stephanie launched The Bootstrap Business Club, a 12-month program of directed support for new business owners and neurospicy entrepreneurs. Every month, the team works with clients on a different aspect of their business to help them develop sustainably and grow their business. Clients who sign up for The Bootstrap Business Club will receive exceptional support and guidance tailored to their individual needs and goals. Stephanie Ward and her team are passionate about delivering high-quality services that encourage adults with neurodivergent conditions to embrace their differences and drive innovation and success. The team provide personalised support to help individuals flourish at work while working sustainably with their disability. For neurodivergent and disabled workforces, the company opens the door for new opportunities and helps individuals to achieve their goals. In this year’s Business Elite Awards, we have bestowed on Stephanie Ward Online Business Services our award for Best Disabled & Neurodiverse Employee Support Provider. We cannot wait to see what comes next for the business on its mission to empower neurodiverse individuals in the workplace. Contact: Stephanie Ward Company: Stephanie Ward Online Business Services Web Address: www.stephanie-ward.com
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