News
Shining a spotlight on neurodiversity at our ESG Roundtable
On 8 September, we hosted our fourth quarterly ESG Roundtable Lunch, this time focusing on Community Driven Catering and the vital role of neurodiversity in the workplace.
Too often, sustainability conversations focus only on the environment. But we believe social impact is just as important, because strong, inclusive communities are the foundation of a sustainable future.
1 in 7 People are neurodivergent
Our session was opened by Annelie Selander, WSH Chief Sustainability Officer, who shared a powerful statistic: one in seven people is neurodivergent. In catering, the number is likely even higher, as many thrive in creative, high-energy kitchens.
That is why we feel a duty to make our workplaces inclusive, supportive and open, so that every member of our team can flourish.
Learning and sharing together
Our Learning and Development Manager, Dorrianne Casey, spoke about the tools we use to build awareness, such as DISC profiling and specialised neurodiversity training for both managers and team members.
We also shared a video of three BM Family members who opened up about their experiences with neurodiversity. Their stories highlighted the importance of awareness, support and understanding, not just from management but from colleagues too.
Curiosity is key
Our panel featured Ben Schobs, Regional Chef Manager and Access Champion, Daniel Armitage, Chief Executive of Neuro Sparks Business Solutions, and Dorrianne Casey.
Together, they explored how unconscious bias can hold people back, how to approach conversations with care, and how we can better celebrate the strengths of neurodivergent individuals.
The theme that came up again and again was curiosity: the curiosity to learn, to ask questions, to embrace different perspectives and to see neurodiversity as an asset.
Ending with connection
We closed the event with a meal designed by one of our neurodivergent chefs, which gave clients and guests the chance to continue the conversation. Many shared their own personal connections to neurodiversity, showing just how deeply this subject touches us all.
Looking ahead
We are excited to continue our ESG Roundtables, alternating between environmental topics such as tackling waste and packaging, and social ones that drive a positive impact for people and communities.
For us, neurodiversity is not just part of the conversation. It is part of our future.
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