At NFU Mutual, we believe that a truly inclusive workplace is one where every individual’s strengths and differences are celebrated. We are delighted that our Neurodiversity Network was recently honoured as the ‘Neurodiversity Inclusivity Champion of the Year’ at the Insurance Post D&I in Insurance Awards 2025. Accepting the award were our dedicated co-chairs, Karl Collier and Warren Poyner, whose leadership has helped shape a culture where neurodiversity is not just acknowledged, but embraced. We caught up with Karl and Warren to learn more about the Network and their experiences at NFU Mutual.
Shaping a culture of belonging
Founded in 2024, the Neurodiversity Network quickly grew from a small committee to over 100 members in its first two weeks. Today, more than 240 colleagues are actively involved, reflecting a deep desire across NFU Mutual to foster awareness, education, and understanding of neurodiversity in the workplace.
Karl shares, “My personal experience of having ADHD and a deep belief in equity were key motivators. Like many on the committee, I’ve navigated neurodiversity in my own life, albeit much of it without knowing I was neurodiverse until my diagnosis of ADHD (with Autistic markers) at 39 last year. That lived insight, combined with a desire to create a workplace where everyone feels seen and supported, made stepping into this role a natural and necessary choice.”
Warren adds, “Winning this award is a testament to the passion and commitment of every member of our Network. It’s about making real change - ensuring colleagues feel safe, valued, and empowered to thrive. We’re proud to have helped shape inclusive recruitment practices and bring neurodiversity into strategic conversations at the highest levels.”
The award: A milestone for inclusion
The judges recognised our commitment to supporting neurodivergent colleagues, driving policy changes, and increasing visibility for neurodiversity at every level of the business. For Karl and Warren, the most rewarding aspect of leading the Network has been witnessing its impact on real people.
Karl reflects, “A colleague telling us they finally feel understood, a parent talking to us about their neurodivergent child, or a manager making a small adjustment that transforms someone’s working day. These moments of connection are powerful. They’re often sparked by storytelling, which I believe is at the heart of what we do.”
Impact on NFU Mutual’s culture
The Neurodiversity Network has become a catalyst for cultural change at NFU Mutual. By creating safe spaces for open conversations, the Network has helped colleagues feel seen, supported, and part of a community that values difference. It has provided practical guidance for managers, helping them adapt feedback, rethink meetings, and embrace different working styles. These changes have made our workplace more flexible, empathetic, and innovative.
Warren notes, “We measure our impact in several ways. Event attendance and feedback help us understand what is resonating, engagement on Viva Engage and Teams shows us how conversations are evolving, our inclusion in strategic meetings and business updates reflects the growing importance of neurodiversity in business planning and, perhaps most importantly, we track tangible policy changes and increased self-disclosure, which signal real cultural progress.”
Since its launch, the Network has increased confidence, encouraged advocacy, and brought neurodiversity into strategic conversations at the highest levels. The award win is not just a recognition of past achievements - it’s a catalyst for future progress, inspiring us to continue building a culture where everyone can thrive.
Find out more about or approach to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion as an employer here.