International Stammering Awareness Day | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds
International Stammering Awareness Day | Supporting Employees with Stammering in the Workplace.
As business owners and managers, it’s important to recognise the challenges employees with stammering may face in the workplace. On October 22nd, International Stammering Awareness Day, we are reminded of the importance of creating an inclusive and supportive work environment for all team members, regardless of speech or communication differences.
Understanding Stammering:
Stammering, also known as stuttering, affects around 1% of adults worldwide. It is a speech disorder that can cause disruptions in the flow of speech, making it difficult for individuals to communicate smoothly. These disruptions can vary from minor hesitations to prolonged pauses and can lead to anxiety or embarrassment in professional settings.
Why It Matters in the Workplace:
Effective communication is crucial in any business. Employees with stammering may avoid situations such as presentations, team meetings, or phone calls, fearing judgement or misunderstanding. This can affect their performance and opportunities for career growth.
Managers need to be aware that stammering is not a reflection of an employee’s intelligence or competence. It is simply a communication challenge, and with the right support, individuals with stammering can thrive and contribute significantly to the organisation.
Managements Role in Supporting Employees with Stammering:
From an Operational perspective, there are several key actions businesses can take to ensure an inclusive and supportive environment:
Promote Awareness and Understanding:
Educate managers and teams about stammering to reduce stigma and misunderstanding. International Stammering Awareness Day is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness and encourage open conversations in the workplace.
Provide Reasonable Adjustments:
Under the Equality Act 2010, employees with stammering may be entitled to reasonable adjustments. This could include:
- Allowing more time for presentations or tasks involving communication.
- Providing alternatives to verbal communication, such as emails or written reports.
- Offering flexible work arrangements, where appropriate.
Encourage an Inclusive Culture:
Create a culture where employees feel comfortable discussing their challenges. Managers should encourage open dialogue and reassure employees that their contributions are valued, regardless of how they communicate.
Offer Training for Managers:
Equip managers with the skills to support employees with communication difficulties. This includes being patient in conversations, avoiding interruptions, and focusing on the message rather than how it is delivered.
Use Technology to Support Communication:
Modern technology offers various tools that can assist employees with stammering. Voice-to-text software, video conferencing, and messaging platforms can help facilitate communication in a way that works best for the individual.
The Business Benefits of Inclusion:
Supporting employees with stammering isn’t just about compliance with the law; it’s also about promoting diversity and inclusion, which can benefit your business. By fostering a supportive environment, you can unlock the potential of every team member, improve job satisfaction, and enhance overall productivity.
This International Stammering Awareness Day, take a moment to reflect on how your business can better support employees with stammering and other communication challenges. It’s an opportunity to not only make your workplace more inclusive but also to create a culture where everyone can succeed.
For more advice on how to support employees with stammering or other communication difficulties, feel free to contact us at Consensus HR. We’re here to help ensure your business remains a fair and inclusive workplace for all.