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Autistic work experience and employment

Work experience and employment

Autistic young people want a chance to prove themselves in the workplace – just like everybody else starting out in their career. But sadly, we know that getting a foot on the employment ladder can be harder for these young people. 

Around 700,000 people in the UK are autistic and yet just 29% of autistic adults are in full or part-time paid employment. 

Increasingly employers are starting to understand the benefits of a neurodiverse workforce – and are seeking employees who can offer different ways of thinking and problem-solving.

Work experience is an important way for all young people to build an understanding of, and confidence in, the world of work. For autistic young people, this is especially important in helping them adapt to and understand the 'rules' of different working environments. 

 

Employ Autism programme

We run an award-winning programme called Employ Autism for autistic people aged 16-25. The programme provides opportunities to access paid work experience with leading organisations and companies. 

Ambitious about Autism trains employers so that autistic people are supported in their role every step of the way – from guidance on the interview process to on-the-job training. For certain roles, autistic people are supported by Ambitious about Autism staff through the application process and beyond. 

The impact of Employ Autism on the people who take part cannot be underestimated. It shows them they can thrive in a workplace that supports them and gives them the confidence to kick-start their career journey. 

It also helps employers come away with greater insight and understanding into autism and how they can help increase neurodiversity in the workforce.

Sign up today to receive updates on work opportunities and resources for autistic people in your area.

If you are an employer or an education professional, join the Employ Autism network to receive updates about the programme.

 

Supported internships 

Ambitious College also offers a supported internship programme. The scheme is open to young people aged 19-25 with an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan, autism or learning difficulty, who would like the opportunity to learn about the workplace by being in work. Find out more information about our supported internship programme