DWP launches new dedicated support measures to help more autistic people into work this year

dailyrecord.co.uk:

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced that thousands of autistic jobseekers across Scotland and the rest of the UK are set to benefit from calmer jobcentre environments and tailored support after 15 were accredited by the National Autistic Society (NAS) following a successful pilot.

Since the launch of the trial in October last year, the jobcentres have been testing an autism framework, designed in collaboration with NAS, to transform the service for people on the autistic spectrum to help them find, retain and progress in fulfilling work.

The framework helped to make jobcentres and employment opportunities more accessible through awareness videos, accessibility leaflets and training for work coaches, as well as introducing a quieter and calmer environment for autistic jobseekers.Just 21.7 per cent of working age people with autism are in employment, compared to 53.6 per cent of all disabled people, according to latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).Seven Scottish jobcentres are among the 15 accredited sites across the UK. These are: The UK Government is now stepping up plans to get more jobcentres across Scotland, England and Wales involved to make employment opportunities more accessible to those on the autism spectrum.During a visit to one of the newly accredited sites at Slough Jobcentre, the Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work witnessed first-hand how staff have adapted their approach when supporting autistic customers.Chloe Smith MP said: “It’s fantastic to see jobcentres, including seven in Scotland, taking steps to break down the barriers that have prevented autistic people from finding fulfilling jobs where they can thrive.“By offering new specialist training