Barclays introduce low noise emission hand dryers and gender neutral toilets in a bid to be more 'inclusive' for neurodivergent workers

Barclays has introduced low noise emission hand dryers and gender neutral toilets in a drive to be more 'inclusive' for neurodivergent workers.

The measures at the bank's campus in Glasgow also include quiet rooms for those with 'sensory issues'.

It is the latest example of companies making big changes in the office in a bid to stave off criticism from the woke brigade.

Employers' groups say a spike in people being diagnosed with conditions such as ADHD, autism and anxiety is piling the pressure on firms to make more provisions for them. 

Tanya de Grunwald, of the Good and Fair Employers Club, said social media influencers 'push a strong message that young jobseekers should self-advocate for whatever they need to feel comfortable' during the recruitment process.

She added: 'Employers like Barclays are under pressure to accommodate candidates' requests. They don't want to miss out on talent, but young people are quite forceful – occasionally threatening.'

Ms De Grunwald said firms are fearful of legal challenge, and of jobseekers being critical on review websites. 'The law says they must make reasonable adjustments, but it looks like Barclays have gone much further than they need to legally.'

Motionspot, which describes itself as an 'inclusive design consultancy', was commissioned by Barclays to design the 'barrier-free' workspace. 

Sheila McGoldrick at Barclays said lighting, sound environment, colours and textures were all considered when designing the office in a way that is supportive to autistic and neurodiverse people.

Law firm Hogan Lovells was criticised this month as Orwellian for introducing an anonymous reporting hotline for staff who were upset about the use of non-inclusive language.

Insurance firm Zurich UK has created sensory maps at all of its sites to show staff the levels of temperature, noise, smells and foot traffic around the office.