A Neuroinclusive Approach to the Festive Season
As soon as the Christmas adverts hit our screens and the office decorations start appearing, many people slip happily into festive mode. But for neurodivergent colleagues including those who are autistic, have ADHD, or other neurodivergent conditions, this time of year can feel less like a celebration and more like sensory overload. Sudden changes in routine, extra events and social expectations all stack up, often turning December into one of the most challenging months of the year.
To help workplaces support everyone through the festive season, neurodiversity consultancy Perfectly Autistic has shared some practical guidance on how employers can make Christmas activities more inclusive.
1 – Make festive events optional
No one should feel obliged to take part in group lunches, parties or after-work drinks. Make it clear that attendance is entirely voluntary and avoid questioning people who choose not to join. A simple “you’re welcome if you’d like to come” goes a long way, in helping everyone feel included without pressure.
2– Rethink Secret Santa
Secret Santa isn’t always the light-hearted tradition it’s meant to be. Trying to pick a gift for someone you barely know can be stressful and many of the presents eventually go unused. Research from KPMG shows that 20% of unwanted Christmas gifts end up in charity shops and 14% are regifted. So why not replace Secret Santa with a charity collection or simply remove the pressure altogether?
3 – Share food plans early
For those with sensory sensitivities or safe-food needs, uncertainty around menus can be a major barrier to attending. Provide details of food options in advance and allow colleagues to arrive after the meal if they prefer. This helps everyone decide what feels manageable.
4 – Ditch the dress code confusion
Terms like “smart casual” or “festive chic” mean different things to different people. Removing dress codes ensures all colleagues can attend wearing whatever makes them feel comfortable, without the extra cost or stress of buying something new.
5 – Think accessibility from start to finish
Offer quiet breakout spaces at events, provide clear directions, include photos of the venue and share a simple schedule of what will happen and when. Knowing what to expect helps reduce anxiety and allows neurodivergent colleagues, to plan their arrival and exit in a way that works for them.
Kelly Grainger, neurodiversity keynote speaker and co-founder of Perfectly Autistic, says: “Christmas can be brilliant, but it can also be overwhelming especially if like me you’re autistic and have ADHD. Packed social events, Secret Santa stress and multiple catchups can quickly become too much. By making a few small adjustments, many of which cost absolutely nothing, organisations can help make the festive period more comfortable, inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.”