Workplace Needs Assessments
WPNA that facilitate strength-based approaches in action
Workplace Needs Assessment (WPNA)
An assessment making recommendations for reasonable adjustments in the workplace.
A Workplace Needs Assessment would normally follow a diagnostic assessment and it would consider how dyslexic or other learning differences are affecting performance in a specific job in order to explore the particular workplace adjustments needed for the individual employee in the light of his/her particular job responsibilities. It will also identify training needs and ways in which an employer can give help and support. Information would be gathered in advance from the employee and the employer.
If you already have a diagnostic assessment report, let us know and we can move straight to the Workplace Needs Assessment. Our needs assessment reports are comprehensive and written in a clear jargon-free style. They are in a format which allows them to be used in applications for Access to Work funding for training and equipment.
In more detail, the workplace needs assessment report will include recommendations for of the following:
- A specialist skills coaching programme which covers the aspects of literacy which are directly related to the job in question – for example, research skills, writing emails or reports, reading technical manuals. Other work skills will also be covered, e.g., dealing with job interviews or work reviews, contributing to meetings, understanding instructions, time management, organisational skills.
- A detailed list of IT / assistive technology recommendations and how they would provide appropriate support. Specific guidance on the training needed for items of software or equipment.
- Detailed guidance for the employer about how they can provide support for the employee as well as what they can do to support the programme, e.g., allowing time off work for training, providing a quiet workspace, etc.
Assessment Routes
Employees with a specific learning difference (SpLD) such as dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD can ask their employer for adjustments to support them in their work.
A common route for gaining adjustments is for the employee to gain a full diagnostic assessment report, normally supported by Human Resources (HR) which is followed by a Workplace Needs Assessment (WPNA), which is a discussion with the employee and the manager/s exploring the specific requirements needed by the employee to enable them to carry out their work efficiently.
Guidance for Employers
Neurodiversity Achievement works with employers to provide specialist services. We help you find effective solutions. We believe that an understanding of neurodiversity enables employers and employees as well as the organisation to improve performance and productivity. This makes good business sense.
‘I found the experience of the work place needs assessment extremely positive. The assessor was very well organised, made the process straight forward and easy to understand. I felt at ease throughout the entire assessment, and had a very thorough report sent to me promptly. The report is really going to help my workflow going forward. I couldn't be happier with the experience. Thank you for all your help.’
— Anonymous review
