24/04/2023

GB GOVERNMENT REVIEW TO BOOST EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS OF AUTISTIC PEOPLE

On 2 April 2023, the Government launched a review designed to boost the employment prospects of autistic people.

Employment rates are particularly low for people with autism, with less than three in ten in work.

The review, led by Sir Robert Buckland KC MP, will consider how the Government can work with employers to help more autistic people realise their potential and get into work. It will be supported by Autistica, a UK autism research and campaigning charity, and the Department for Work and Pensions.

The focus of the review will be on supporting employers to recruit and retain autistic people and reap the  benefits of a neurodiverse workforce.

It will consider issues including:

• how employers identify and better support autistic staff already in their workforce;
• what more could be done to prepare autistic people effectively for beginning or returning to a career; and
• working practices or initiatives to reduce stigma and improve the productivity of autistic employees.

Businesses, employment organisations, specialists support groups and people with autism will be asked to help identify the barriers to securing work, retaining work and career progression.

The review may also have wider appeal as many of the adjustments and initiatives that would benefit autistic people could also benefit those with other neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia.

Recommendations for change are to be presented to Government in September 2023.