A 2019 report revealed that 68% of UK employers struggle to find the right workers. Meanwhile, rough estimates show that 16% of autistic adults are currently in full time, paid employment. Although this number is a vast underestimate at best, it is still clear that the majority of autistic people are not a part of the workforce. There is a clear gap here but companies are increasingly recognising that committing to working towards a more diverse and inclusive workplace is critical to success. Tapping into the talent pool of neurodivergent people is one of the ways to start. By increasing diversity and inclusion, a company will not only attract valuable employees, but also expand its customer base and enhance the company’s reputation. Employing autistic people will add value to and benefit your workplace whilst improving your management skills.
Our vision is for all autistic people to have opportunity in work and fulfilment in life.
Our mission is to support autistic people to have fulfilling and productive working relationships in inclusive and positive environments.
We do this by:
Enabling autistic people to find and be successful in suitable work;
Encouraging providers of work to employ autistic people and recognise the benefits they can bring to the workplace.
Work is one of the ways that people find structure and meaning in life. It contributes to a sense of wellbeing and provides a daily routine, a sense of purpose and opportunities for social connection and contribution. We want every autistic person who wants to work to be able to work.