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Autism awareness at work
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What are reasonable accommodations?
Studies show that the autistic community struggle to find and keep jobs. In 2021 it was reported that only 22% of autistic adults were in any form of employment. We know that with reasonable accommodations, the autistic community can flourish in the workplace. So, we asked some of our autistic staff to share the kinds of accommodations they receive. We discovered that most of our staff’s needs can be met with minimal time and to no extra cost.
James Treadwell, Marketing and Communications Officer
The way information is communicated to me has a huge impact on my work. Long bodies of text with lots of different information and instructions can be very hard for me to follow. An easy way to help me with this, is to meet on Teams and discuss the information you sent. By taking those few minutes to talk to me, you help prevent unnecessary feelings of stress and panic.
Jade Carrig, Service Administrator
Answering the phone in a professional manner has been a significant challenge for me in the past. My manager supported me by writing certain words and phrases on pieces of paper placed above my desk. This took only a few minutes of their time, but learning those phrases helped me get used to the work environment and answer the phone effectively.
Making yourself clear and disclosing honestly about your difficulties can really help. Speaking with your manager to find the best way to support you can give you the best opportunity to succeed in the workplace.
Helen Hopkinson, Co-trainer for the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Learning Disabilities and Autism Training
At my current job, we are usually allotted a 15-minute break, I’ve been allowed to take 30 minutes. This has been similar at previous jobs, taking extended breaks or being allowed additional short breaks throughout the day where needed. This helps with my physical health, as well as my mental health.
I really appreciate my current employer for the understanding they show me.
Awareness, acceptance, celebration
Choice Support works with a large range of people, including autistic people and those with learning disabilities. This Autism Celebration Week, we learnt some interesting facts about autism that you may not have known.
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Oliver McGowan Training
Choice Support staff talk about their experience of delivering The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism.
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