Autism
Services are for people aged 18 upwards and are aimed at people with autistic spectrum condition, learning disability, stroke or acquired brain injury, MS, Parkinson’s disease or other physical disability, partially sighted and sight disabled. Many older adults Surrey Choices works with have not been diagnosed as a child, but are likely to have a history of issues around how they interact or communicate and this may lead to getting a late adult diagnosis. In some cases, they may have always felt they did not quite fit in. After receiving a diagnosis, it can make it much easier for them and their families to understand why they have a history of failed jobs and/ or relationships, as they have not had the support they need to help them succeed. It has been suggested that as a society we should train the wider workforce so they are more aware of people on the autism spectrum. Although this makes a lot of sense, it is not always easy. For example, you can tell an employer that people with autism may have difficulties with eye contact and not like to be touched, only to present them on work experience with an over chatty person who invades their personal space. It is clear that training employers about autism can present some challenges and ideally will be
personalised around the person working to explain their own particular support needs to help them shine.
Why employ someone with autism? Why would you not want an employee who is always honest, with a strong integrity and work ethic who, if given clear instructions, will be a reliable worker and will show loyalty? We support employees who enjoy their work and the structure it gives their day
It has been suggested that as a society we should train the wider workforce so they are more aware of people on the autism spectrum.
so much that we have to persuade them to try to take holidays. Although it will vary among different people, some of the skills people with autism may display include attention to detail, loyalty, focus, amazing memory and retention. Most people will not only be honest, but incapable of telling lies and this means they give honest feedback and it is easy to trust them in their roles. Only 16% of people with autism work, but more than 77% of unemployed working age adults with autism say they would like to work. Employers are also keen to increase the number of people with autism in their workplace but are worried they will get it wrong and not be able to provide the right support. Most people with autism will have some level of anxiety around work or aspects such as meeting new people or performing in a new situation. Supported employment services like Surrey Choices EmployAbility can help to make it work for everyone. To find out more about the EmployAbility opportunities available at Surrey Choices, email info@surreychoices.com or call 01483 806806. For more information visit www.surreychoices.com n
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