Building a more Neuroinclusive workplace at E.ON with Genius Within

We’re committed to supporting both our people and our customers. Creating a workplace where every colleague feels supported, included and able to perform at their best is essential to delivering the innovation, collaboration and fresh thinking needed to shape a more sustainable future.

That’s why over the past year, we’ve been working in partnership with Genius Within to strengthen neurodiversity awareness, capability and support across our teams.

What began as a focused programme within npower Business Solutions (nBS) has already delivered measurable impact, helping managers feel more confident supporting neurodivergent colleagues and contributing to a more open and inclusive culture.

Now, we’re preparing to take the next step by extending this support to even more colleagues.

Building confidence through practical support

Genius Within’ s programme has included neurodiversity-focused eLearning alongside dedicated line manager training designed to help leaders better understand and support neurodivergent team members in day-to-day working life. It also includes colleague access to the Genius Finder tool which helps identify strengths and challenges and recommends supporting strategies.

Recent post-implementation data shows we’re making positive progress to become more neuro-inclusive.

Most notably, manager confidence in supporting neurodivergent colleagues increased by 29%, following the training and support rollout.

Managers reported improved confidence in:

• Handling sensitive conversations
• Balancing individual and team needs
• Supporting neurodivergent colleagues effectively
• Knowing where to access guidance and support

Importantly, the findings suggest this represents more than increased awareness alone — it reflects a genuine shift in capability and practical confidence, which will ultimately empower our neurodivergent colleagues to be their best.

Sam Townsend, Head of People and Exec Sponsor of Neurodiversity Network at E.ON UK said: “We know that difference makes us stronger and we constantly strive to make all colleagues feel they belong. The progress we've seen through our partnership with Genius Within is helping to create the right environment for neurodivergent colleagues to feel safe to share what they need to thrive. Our jointly held belief is if we get this right for colleagues with neurodiversity challenges, we get it right for everyone.

While there's more to do, these results show the positive impact of investing in our people. By continuing to strengthen support, raise awareness and listen to colleagues' experiences, we're helping create a workplace where everyone feels valued and able to contribute their best."

Creating a culture where colleagues feel safe and supported

The programme contributed to encouraging signs of cultural progress across teams. Survey results showed a 12% reduction in concern around stigma linked to disclosure, while 84% of colleagues said they feel they have supportive and knowledgeable peers around them.

These insights reflect the growing importance of psychological safety in the workplace and the value of creating environments where colleagues feel comfortable bringing their whole selves to work.

At the same time, the data has highlighted areas where more work is needed.

Some colleagues still report concerns around confidentiality and access to support, while around a quarter of managers continue to feel less confident navigating some neurodiversity-related challenges. These insights are helping shape the next phase of the programme, with a focus on embedding practical support, clearer guidance and continued conversations across teams.

Nancy Doyle, (Acting) CEO of Genius Within CIC said: "E.ON are showing market leadership where it comes to neuroinclusion by investing in manager skill. Across the UK neurodivergent people and their managers are struggling to find the right balance, tone, for creating psychological safety and career progression. E.ON's team have gone to the heart of the matter, putting in resources to support career and performance conversations at source, rather than waiting until it is too late. In our experience, this sets them apart from many UK employers. We expect to see great things as we progress this journey together."

Our Neurodiversity Network

Alongside this work, E.ON’s colleague-led Neurodiversity Network continues to play an important role in creating a more inclusive workplace culture. The network provides a supportive space for colleagues to share experiences, raise awareness and help shape positive change across the business.

From practical guidance and lived experience sharing to influencing training and policies, the network helps ensure neurodivergent colleagues feel heard, valued and supported. It also plays a key role in encouraging open conversations and helping to reduce concerns colleagues may have about sharing.

Embedding neuroinclusion for the future

As the programme evolves, the focus is shifting from launch activity to long-term cultural embedding. This includes enhanced manager toolkits, practical case-based guidance and continued support through E.ON’s neurodiversity networks and steering groups.

The ambition is clear: to create an environment where neurodivergent colleagues feel supported, understood and empowered to succeed.

By continuing to listen, learn and invest in our people, we’re helping ensure every mind matters, because diversity will play a vital role in delivering the energy transition of the future.