DXC marks five years of Dandelion neurodivergent scheme

DXC has marked the fifth anniversary of its Dandelion programme in the UK, an initiative that helps neurodivergent people into long-term technology careers.

Since launching in 2021, the two-year scheme has supported more than 30 participants in the UK, with a 100% completion rate and 95.8% retention two years after the programme, according to DXC. Graduates have moved into roles in cybersecurity, software development, testing and digital operations.

The programme is aimed at people with autism, ADHD, dyslexia and other cognitive differences. It is designed to widen access to technology work while helping employers respond to skills shortages.

DXC has also updated the programme to reflect the spread of AI tools in the workplace. Participants are trained to assess AI outputs, check quality and accuracy, and apply structured critical thinking in more automated settings.

Employment rates for autistic adults in the UK remain low. DXC cited figures showing that 34% of autistic adults are in work, while 77% of unemployed autistic people say they want to work.

The Dandelion model combines specialist recruitment with tailored onboarding and longer-term support. Participants receive guidance from NeuroInclusion Consultants beyond the hiring stage, including support with workplace integration and career development.

That support structure is central to how the programme operates. It also reflects a broader shift among employers towards retaining neurodivergent staff rather than focusing only on recruitment.

"As we mark five years of the DXC Dandelion programme, we are proud of the opportunities it has created for neurodivergent talent to build meaningful and lasting careers in technology," said Derek Allison, General Manager, DXC Technology UK&I. "This programme reflects DXC's social values in action - expanding access to opportunity, removing barriers to employment, and building a more inclusive technology sector. By focusing on potential and providing the right support, we are not only strengthening our talent pipeline, but also delivering real, measurable social impact value in the communities we serve."

Support model

The UK was the first European market for the Dandelion programme. It has since expanded to Poland, Bulgaria and Italy.

The next UK cohort is now being recruited, with 12 participants due to start in October. They will receive structured training, workplace experience and supported career pathways in areas including software testing and application development.

The programme forms part of DXC's wider work on skills, employability, diversity and community engagement. It is intended to broaden access to technology careers and contribute to a more equitable workplace.

Laura Harman, a NeuroInclusion Consultant representative supporting the programme, said the strength of the model lies in its continuity of support. "By working closely with participants and their teams throughout the journey, we are able to build confidence, remove barriers in real time, and help individuals develop sustainable careers in technology. What makes the Dandelion Programme unique is its focus not only on recruitment, but on creating the conditions for long-term success."

DXC added that its inclusion work has also been recognised through its place in The Times Top 50 Employers for Gender Equality 2026. In the UK, the Dandelion programme remains one of its most visible efforts to address barriers to employment for neurodivergent people while filling roles across several technology disciplines.