When I joined the Ombudsman, I didn’t know at the time that I was autistic. But it struck me immediately how vital logical thinking and analytical skills were to doing the job well.

Part of the role that can be challenging for me is the significant amount of information I need to process. However, I have received nothing but enthusiastic support, and was able to feel comfortable talking through adjustments to help me do my work to the best of my ability. The Ombudsman’s organisational culture is like no other place I have worked.

After nearly eight years here, I am now in one of our Assessment teams. This involves deciding which complaints we can and should investigate, applying what the law says about our jurisdiction and considering whether there is evidence of fault and injustice that warrants our involvement. This part of the organisation particularly appeals to me because I can take a systematic approach to my work.

Everyone here is welcoming and keen to support each other. It is clear to see that staff internalise the values we aim towards and feel proud to work here. A strong sense of justice binds us.

I feel valued, supported and trusted. We are given significant flexibility in terms of how, where and when we work. Working largely from home, at times that suit me, has been invaluable to me as a neurodivergent person with sole childcare responsibilities. I would thoroughly encourage neurodivergent people to consider applying for roles here as I have found my skillsets particularly suited to the job.