Bridging the Gap: Supports for Dyspraxia in the Workplace


December 2023
 

Dyspraxia, also known as developmental co-ordination disorder, is a condition that affects a person’s organisation of movement, and can impact their use of language, perception and thought. It is said to affect up to 6% of the population, with about 2-4% said to experience serious symptoms. 

With so many different ways that individuals experience dyspraxia, it can be hard for employers to know how to support dyspraxic employees. In this guide, we’ll cover the different ways that dyspraxia can present, and ways to accommodate dyspraxia in the modern international workplace.

 

Dyspraxia is a condition that affects a person’s movement and coordination. There are four main types of dyspraxia that are most common. These are:

  • Verbal – difficulty pronouncing words and navigating language
  • Constructional – difficulty with spacial awareness
  • Ideational – difficulty with performing coordinated movements in a sequence
  • Ideomotor – difficulty with single-step tasks

At work, dyspraxia may present in a number of different ways, including:

  • Poor handwriting
  • Difficulty with office equipment, especially any that requires the use of both hands
  • Poor sense of time
  • Difficulty with planning and organisation
  • Often bumping into objects or finding it hard to navigate around an office
Every individual with dyspraxia is just that – an individual. It’s important to remember that they may need different, more or less supports depending on the nature of their dyspraxia. But here are some general accommodations HR teams can make to help make the workplace a more welcoming place.
Establishing a structured and organised work environment with regular routines helps reduce anxiety for dyspraxic individuals.
People with dyspraxia often struggle processing verbal information, so it’s generally important to give clear written instructions where possible.
Consider pairing employees with dyspraxia with mentors or ‘buddies’ who can help with complex tasks and provide regular progress check-ins.
Avoid putting dyspraxic employees on the spot with tasks, or client meetings. Difficulties with reading and memory issues can cause a lot of anxiety for dyspraxic employees – avoid this by preparing any questions before an important meeting.
Supporting employees with dyspraxia in the international workplace isn't just about compliance; it involves creating an inclusive environment that values the diverse perspectives and talents that each individual brings. Discover the range of global health services Allianz Partners offers for expatriates. Learn more about our international healthcare plans for employers and start supporting your employees abroad.