National Careers Week (NCW) returns from 2–7 March 2026, marking the UK’s leading celebration of careers guidance and high quality resources designed to inspire young people at a crucial stage in their education. This year’s theme, “Own YOUR Future”, is especially significant for neurodivergent people. For many, the journey into education, employment and career progression is shaped by barriers that have nothing to do with talent or capability and everything to do with lack of understanding, inaccessible environments or stigma.

Creating a landscape where neurodivergent individuals are empowered to shape their careers is central to NCW’s ambition, and strongly aligned with 3SC’s mission too.

The Reality of Neurodiversity in the Workplace

Despite the immense value neurodivergent people bring, employment outcomes remain disproportionately low.

The statistics are stark:

• Only around 30% of neurodivergent people are currently employed, representing a vast pool of untapped talent.
• Doubling the employment rate for autistic people would boost the UK economy by £1.5 billion.
• 90% of disabilities are invisible, meaning many needs go unrecognised and unsupported.
• Two thirds of neurodivergent employees fear discrimination at work, preventing many from disclosing their diagnosis or requesting adjustments.

These numbers make clear that empowering neurodivergent people to own their future requires more than aspiration, it demands widespread cultural change, practical support, and sustained investment.

3SC’s Mission: Creating Neuroinclusive Workplaces Since 2018

Since 2018, 3SC has been driving that change.

Our work has focused on transforming understanding, improving accessibility and enabling neurodivergent people to thrive at work. To date, we have:

• Supported over 1,000 employers to upskill staff in neurodiversity training.
• Developed Neurodiversity Champions within organisations to drive sustainable cultural change.
• Provided workplace coaching to nearly 2,000 neurodivergent individuals, helping them build personalised strategies, harness their strengths and succeed in their chosen careers.

Our experience shows that when neurodivergent people receive the right support and when employers understand how to create inclusive environments there is benefit for everyone.

Funding Support Through Access to Work

3SC also supports both employers and individuals to navigate the Government’s Access to Work scheme, which can provide full or partial funding for:

• Workplace coaching
• Specialist mentoring
• Disability impact training
• Assistive technology and reasonable adjustments

Access to Work removes financial barriers and ensures neurodivergent employees receive the tools, strategies and tailored support they need to excel.

3SC’s expertise in this area enables organisations to access funding efficiently and implement meaningful, lasting change.

A Shared Commitment to the Future of Work

This year, NCW continues its partnership with NatWest Group, highlighting the THRIVE programme’s focus on developing essential skills for the future of work, a future in which neurodivergent strengths are increasingly recognised and valued.

3SC and NCW share a commitment to ensure every individual, including those with neurodivergent experiences are equipped to pursue fulfilling, sustainable employment. Together:

• NCW inspires and informs young people.
• 3SC empowers organisations and individuals with practical tools.
• Access to Work removes financial barriers to essential support.

It is through this combination of awareness, empowerment and action that neurodivergent people can truly Own Their Future.