Case Study: Pioneering Neurodiversity Support – How HCML and Genius Within Transformed Employee Wellbeing using Genius Finder®

HCML (Health and Case Management Ltd) is a leading provider of rehabilitation and wellbeing case management services across the UK. Recognising the growing need for specialist neurodiversity support, Tim Heard, HCML’s Head of Mental and Wellbeing Health Services, sought an innovative partner to deliver meaningful change for clients and employers alike. As a forward-thinking leader in this space, Tim chose to collaborate with Genius Within and their Genius Finder platform, recognised experts in workplace neurodiversity support, to design and deliver a stepped programme that put employee needs and outcomes at its heart.

Employers often face uncertainty when supporting neurodivergent staff. Traditional “gatekeeping” approaches can result in lengthy processes, higher costs, and delayed access to effective support. Many neurodivergent employees need quick, practical strategies, while only a smaller proportion require intensive intervention. The challenge was to design a model that delivered early, tailored help without unnecessary escalation, while also demonstrating value for money.

Genius Within piloted a Stepped/Triage Approach using the Genius Finder platform, that ensured employees could access the right support at the right time. Beginning with a light-touch occupational health assessment, individuals received coping strategies, workplace education, and advice on reasonable adjustments. Where needed, they were directed to online screening and guided self-help, or referred for high-intensity coaching and diagnostic assessment. This tiered system reduced barriers, improved engagement, and empowered managers to act quickly with evidence-based recommendations.

The results were clear. Over 12 months, 108 cases were supported through the stepped model. Two percent of participants chose not to engage, but 40% of employees had their needs met at Step 1 with simple strategy advice.

A further 32% benefitted from guided self-help and screening tools, while 16% required more intensive coaching. Only 10% of cases escalated to full diagnostic assessment or co-coaching, demonstrating that most employees thrive with light or medium-touch support.

In practice, this meant employees received help faster, employers saw productivity gains sooner, and resources were allocated where they were most needed.

By adopting a stepped and compassionate approach, Genius Within has shown that neurodivergent employees can be supported in a way that is cost-effective, timely, and impactful. This model not only empowers individuals to succeed at work but also helps organisations to build inclusive, resilient workplaces.

To learn more about how Genius Within and Genius Finder® can help your organisation scale neurodiversity support in a cost effective way, get in touch.

Contact us here