Autism Alliance welcomes Autism Employment Review

The Autism Alliance welcomes the Autism Employment Review led by Sir Robert Buckland, supported by the Department for Work and Pensions and Autistica.

Autistic people have one of the lowest employment rates of any group, and although there is good practice amongst employers in supporting their employment, much remains to be done.

Autistic people have a wide range of strengths and can bring huge benefits to companies. They should be able to thrive in work, and it is vital that the barriers they face in entering and progressing in employment are addressed.

Although the Review will include a strong focus on the role of employers in leading recruitment, retention and shaping the working environment, it will be important to consider the full range of factors that impact on the employment of autistic people. These include the SEND education system, the provision of careers guidance and support, the Jobcentre Plus model, and the design and delivery of Government supported employment initiatives such as Access to Work and Local Supported Employment.

The Autism Alliance is delighted to see Autistica supporting the Review. A member of the Autism Alliance, Autistica’s work on research and practice is leading edge and their expertise will be invaluable as the Review moves forward.

You can read more about the Autism Employment Review here.

Autistica has taken forward a range of work on autism and employment, including a goal to double the employment rate for autistic people by 2030. You can read their Employment Plan here. They have also produced an Employers Guide to Neurodiversity, which the Autism Alliance endorses and recommends that all employers read and adopt.