Autism Acceptance Week

From the 28^th of March until the 3^rd of April this year is World Autism Acceptance Week 2022.  The National Autistic Society , explains that “Autism is a lifelong disability which affects how people communicate and interact with the world.  There are approximately 700,000 autistic adults and children in the UK.”  So the likelihood is, you know someone who has autism although you may not know it! For more information on what autism is, look at our blog from last year here - Autism Awareness Week 2021.

Here at Ways into Work, we are currently working with around 500 job seekers who have a disability or other employment barrier, to help support them in their employment journey. Of these job seekers, around 150 of these individuals are on the autistic spectrum so we know first-hand the excellent attributes that the majority can bring to a role.

We all have our own strengths, weaknesses, and challenges that we face in our day-to-day life as well as in our jobs.  For example, individuals who are on the autistic spectrum often need more time to process new information or may struggle to meet new people and adjust to new environments. However, the vast majority of individuals on the autistic spectrum have specific strengths that are extremely beneficial to employers including:

·        Intense focus

·        Attention to detail

·        A considered and reflective approach

·        Honestly and integrity

·        Creative thinking

These attributes, stated by the National Autistic Society, are well-known strengths that many autistic individuals possess, but they also match our own observations.  The job seekers who we have worked with that are on the autistic spectrum tend to possess these key strengths which make them valuable employees for many sectors.  In addition to these great strengths, we have also found that many individuals with autism tend to be extremely loyal and dedicated to the companies they work for.

Despite this, the employment gap for most adults with a disability, including individuals with autism, is still extremely high. Only 22% of individuals on the autistic spectrum are employed in the UK.  

We know first-hand that this low percentage can be improved on by supporting these individuals in their employment journey and by providing employers with mentoring to do just that. At Ways into Work, our Employment Coaches specialise in carefully matching each of our job seekers to a role and company that suits their individual skills and strengths.  Of the 150 individuals that we work with who have autism, nearly two-thirds have gained work.  This shows that Supported Employment techniques really work, that they can have an incredible impact on people’s lives whilst at the same time meeting the recruitment and manpower needs of a business.

If you are a job seeker get in touch or view our Job Seekers Page to see if we can support you in your employment journey.  Or if you are an employer get in touch or view our Employers Page to find out how we can help you access an untapped workforce, and support your new employee and their line manager in the workplace.