DXC Technology expands global initiative to help neurodiversity in the workplace

DXC Technology (NYSE: DXC ), a leading Fortune 500 technology services provider, is expanding the DXC Dandelion program, which helps neurodivergent people with autism, ADHD, dyslexia and other neurological conditions to develop their professional career in the IT sector.

Following the success of the program in Australia and New Zealand, DXC is now launching the initiative in Europe and Asia-Pacific countries. The UK will be the first to launch, based on a 12-month pilot programme, to be followed by Bulgaria , Poland and the Philippines.

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Hiring is now open at the new locations with job opportunities in various fields including data analytics, software automation, user experience, and cybersecurity.

The DXC Dandelion program was launched in 2014 in Australia with the aim of creating employment and career paths for neurodivergent people within the IT sector. With no prior professional experience required to participate, DXC has made the program available to people of all abilities who are motivated to work in technology. In addition to offering employment, DXC provides participants with technical and vocational training, as well as professional support from specialist consultants.

Michael Fieldhouse , Social Impact Practice Leader at DXC Technology APAC, responsible for the DXC Dandelion Program, highlights that “Neurodivergent people often have an extraordinary ability to think visually and pay attention to detail. These are valuable skills, especially in areas of IT such as cybersecurity and data analytics. By creating a fair and positive work environment and providing the right supportive framework, we are giving DXC Dandelion participants the best opportunity to succeed.”

Dandelion DXC program in numbers:

• Job opportunities have been created for over 200 people to date
• 92% job retention rate .
• 30-40% increase in the overall productivity of the teams participating in the program
• Recognized by organizations in the sector worldwide, with 17 international awards for its contribution to the development of socially beneficial initiatives
• Recognized in the list of top rated companies by the Global Disability Equality Index, achieving a score of 100% for company achievements in disability and inclusion in the last three years
• A pilot program was launched in the UK in 2021, providing employment opportunities for 15 neurodivergent people
• Participants have the opportunity to work on client projects. For example, the UK Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), where 4 people are working on software testing and User Experience (UX) as part of the DXC contract to support the Information Management Services 4 (IMS4) program .

Chris Halbard, President of DXC Technology, EMEA added “As we continue to grow, it is important that we invest in the communities where we do business and recognize the positive impact of diversity in the workplace. That is why we are spreading DXC Dandelion across Europe and around the world, helping neurodivergent individuals unleash their unique talents and bring success to themselves, DXC and our clients.”

Cooperation with NGOs

DXC Technology cooperates with non-governmental organizations, foundations and educational institutions that help expand the reach and impact of the DXC Dandelion Program and supports the identification and selection of participants who could benefit.

“Disparities in employment participation rates for neurodivergent people is a global issue that deserves our concerted attention,” said Susanne Bruyere , Professor of Disability Studies, Academic Director, Yang-Tan Institute on Employment and Disability, Cornell University ILR School. ” Cornell University is pleased to partner with DXC Technology as the DXC Dandelion Program advances globally to make information about these targeted neurodiversity recruitment initiatives more widely available through a partnership for an online portal that share related program information.”

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