Workplace noise regularly tops employee complaint lists and has been linked to productivity losses of up to 66%. For neurodivergent employees, though, these effects are often even more amplified. These barriers may be invisible, but they have very real costs: disengagement, lost productivity, burnout, and lost talent.

Despite the severity of the problem, facilities managers are still presented with a narrow set of tools – like noise-cancelling headphones. Research shows that noise-cancelling headphones are often deployed as a reactionary coping mechanism, as opposed to a solution that solves the underlying acoustic or design issues, and even suggests that they do not reliably improve cognitive performance.

Instead, this session focuses on how workplace professionals, including FMs, designers, and consultants, can proactively address underlying acoustic and design issues, embedding inclusive approaches to sound directly into workplace strategy and management.

This interactive workshop will offer an accessible look at the science of how neurodivergent people experience workplace sound – moving far beyond the stereotype that the neurodivergent experience simply means being “sensitive” to noise. Alongside the science, Sarah will share lived experience as a senior HR leader navigating workplaces before her own diagnosis, and the difference made by sensory-aware practices.

The session will then connect these insights to principles drawn from award-winning, research-led projects – showing how to plan sensory zones, design inclusive user journeys, build in sonic flexibility and choice, and integrate natural cues to support focus and wellbeing.

Participants will experience the impact first-hand through short sound exercises and leave with clear ideas about how to apply these ideas in their own workplaces.

By applying these principles, attendees can help their organisations retain talent and improve productivity and wellbeing – including reduced stress, better problem solving, engagement and sense of belonging. They will also be better positioned to meet the new expectations of certifications like WELL, and to respond to changing expectations in workplace inclusivity and experience.

For neurodivergent children, adverse responses to noise frequently stop them being able to take part in a range of activities. Sadly, these barriers persist into adulthood and the built environment. With new awareness, research and technology, we have an opportunity now to break that cycle. At its core, this session will leave attendees listening to their workplaces with fresh ears and clearly show how sound can instead become an asset for FMs that enables people to engage more fully in the workplace.

• Build a clearer understanding of how sound affects neurodivergent people
• Explore proactive approaches to workplace design & audio tech – not just reactive fixes
• Understand the role of context & ongoing management
• Apply the thinking directly to your own workplaces to start designing a sensory zoning strategy