Public Service Neurodiversity Week/Resources
Neurodiversity resources in the Government of Canada
The Government of Canada provides a variety of resources and programs to help build a more inclusive and accessible workplace. For neurodivergent employees, including those with conditions and differences like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, Tourette’s syndrome, and others, these supports can play an important role in ensuring equal opportunity, workplace success, and professional development.
Infinity – The Network for Neurodivergent Public Servants works to connect employees across the federal public service with many of these tools, resources, and opportunities. Below is a selection of programs and services available that may be particularly valuable for neurodivergent employees and their managers.
Infinity Help Hub
The Infinity Help Hub (available on GCxchange, (only available on the Government of Canada network)) is a central online library curated by Infinity for neurodivergent employees and their allies. It provides practical guidance, templates, and peer-informed tools to help employees navigate workplace culture, accommodation requests, and career development.
Topics include:
- How to understand and request workplace accommodations
- Building connections and peer communities of support
- Digital tools to strengthen executive functioning, time management, and productivity
- Job-seeking strategies for navigating federal hiring processes
- Resources for second-language learning
- Guidance on supporting mental health and well-being
GC Workplace Accessibility Passport
The GC Workplace Accessibility Passport is a portable tool that supports conversations between employees and managers about workplace barriers and the solutions that work best for each individual.
Because the Passport can move with employees across departments, it reduces the need to restart the accommodation process when transitioning into new positions. For neurodivergent employees who rely on consistency of supports, this continuity can make a significant difference in their ability to thrive.
Additional templates, examples, and implementation guidance are available through the GC Workplace Accessibility Passport Hub on GCpedia (only available on the Government of Canada network).
Accessibility, Accommodation and Adaptive Computer Technology (AAACT) program
The Accessibility, Accommodation and Adaptive Computer Technology (AAACT) program, managed by Shared Services Canada, provides assessments, adaptive technologies, training, and expert advice to employees with disabilities.
For neurodivergent employees, AAACT can recommend tools such as screen readers, voice recognition software, ergonomic equipment, adaptive keyboards, and planning or time-management supports. The program also provides managers and teams with strategies to integrate accessible technologies and inclusive practices into day-to-day work.
Hiring programs and pools for persons with disabilities
The Government of Canada has established several hiring programs, pools, and partnerships to support the recruitment and advancement of persons with disabilities — opportunities that may also be especially relevant for neurodivergent candidates.
- Employment Opportunity for Students with Disabilities (EOSD) – A Public Service Commission program that connects federal hiring managers with a pool of students with disabilities, including neurodivergent students, for work terms. More information: EOSD program page.
- Federal Internship Program for Persons with Disabilities – A two-year paid internship offering professional experience, training, and mentorship to people with disabilities who are interested in a public service career. More information: Internship program page.
- Recruitment of Policy Leaders (RPL) – Disability Stream – An annual PSC program that recruits highly qualified candidates into policy leadership roles across government, with a dedicated stream for persons with disabilities, including neurodivergent candidates. More information: RPL program page.
- LiveWorkPlay partnership – A collaboration betweens some federal public service organizations and LiveWorkPlay, a non-profit organization based in Ottawa. LiveWorkPlay supports the inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities and autistic persons in meaningful employment. Through this partnership, federal departments benefit from diverse talent while advancing inclusion goals.
These resources and programs are among the many supports available to foster a public service that is accessible, inclusive, and neurodiversity-affirming. Employees and managers are encouraged to explore these tools and opportunities to help ensure that all public servants — including neurodivergent employees — can contribute fully to the Government of Canada’s mission.