Simon Frampton is Resourcing Manager at YTL UK, the group that owns Wessex Water.  Simon first became interested in neurodiversity after meeting an individual with autism who inspired him. That experience led him to begin to champion neurodiversity in his own workplace and then in the wider sector. 

Simon believes that more should be done to make the workplace more accessible and welcoming for neurodivergent people and that by doing so, the water sector can harness a vast untapped resource at a time when increased recruitment of skilled people is vital.

In this fascinating discussion with hosts Lila Thompson (CEO, British Water) and Perminder Atwal (HR Business Partner at Xylem UK), Simon talks about how applying for jobs can be like cracking a code for those with neurodiversity. He also gives practical advice for senior leaders on how to improve recruitment and management processes.

Simon also brings to life the scale of the challenge. People with autism, for example, are at a massive statistical disadvantage when it comes to applying for jobs, getting them and then being able to thrive once in position. This episode also busts myths and shares hope for what an improved sector - with greater opportunities for neurodiverse people - could look like.

Beneath The Surface

Through powerful stories and real-life examples, Beneath The Surface highlights EDI topics in the water sector, sharing personal experiences and best practices that inspire change. It brings attention to the voices of under-represented groups, with a focus on attracting diverse talent and fostering a culture of inclusion. 

By connecting senior leaders and rising professionals from different backgrounds, it creates a space where ideas flourish, synergies are built, and the industry moves closer to becoming a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all.

Beneath The Surface is co-hosted by British Water's CEO, Lila Thompson, and Perminder Atwal, HR Business Partner, Xylem UK & Ireland. 

Podcast Co-host- Lila Thompson, British Water, CEO

Lila is responsible for British Water’s strategic direction, representing the interests of UK water and wastewater supply chain companies together with wider stakeholders across the sector, through the UK, Technical and International forums. The Water Industry Forum provides challenge-led, independent thought leadership, to tackle the challenges facing the sector. Lila was formerly responsible for British Water’s international services and led business development visits to a range of markets including Saudi Arabia, Libya, Morocco, Russia, Romania, Bulgaria, China, and India. Lila has over 20 years of experience driving business growth, policy development, and stakeholder engagement in a variety of sectors.

Podcast Co-host- Perminder Atwal, HR Business Partner, Xylem UK & Ireland

With 18 years of HR experience spanning manufacturing, engineering, logistics, and now the water industry, Perminder has developed a deep understanding of business and strategy, and her journey has also highlighted the critical role of company culture and psychological safety in driving engagement, business success, innovation, and development. Perminder is passionate about ensuring the accessibility of clean water for all. A trip to India in her early years revealed the harsh reality of limited and unclean water resources, particularly impacting children, which was heartbreaking. This experience fuelled her dedication to helping others and reinforced her commitment to working in a global organisation focused on the social value of water.