We were blown away at the response to this week's OnFARM podcast episode 'ADHD in farming' sponsored by rural business specialists Bell Ingram!
(To recap for those of you who haven't heard it already: Oxford Farming Conference chair, Will Evans and BBC Alba presenter, Domhnall Macsween have both been recently diagnosed with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and both believe that undiagnosed ADHD may be prevalent in UK agriculture. Have a listen at https://pod.fo/e/16dda6)
Perhaps we shouldn't be surprised that it chimed with so many of you as, according to ACAS (the body whose purpose it is to improve working conditions and best practice), about one in seven of us is neurodivergent.
ADHD affects the person’s ability to control attention, impulses and concentration, and can cause inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness.
Despite 15% of the population having conditions such as Attention Deficit Disorders, Autism, Dyslexia and Dyspraxia, the average workplace is still geared towards the 'neurotypical'.
Interestingly, there is a much higher rate of ADHD in the creative sector where, sometimes, it can be good to let the mind wander. On other occasions, when focus is required, it can be problematic.
We converted this text to 'bionic reading' which some people with conditions such as ADHD or dyslexia have found to improve their reading comprehension. Other people don't seem to notice a difference. We'd love to know how you get on and we'd especially know any tips for supporting our neurodiverse friends and colleagues.
For those of you unfamiliar, all episodes of our OnFARM podcast can be found at https://podfollow.com/onfarm thanks to series sponsors Gillespie Macandrew, Bell Ingram and Lawrie & Symington.
