Employers must be incentivised to hire autistic young people
In today’s Summer Statement, the Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced funding for a new “kick-starter” scheme to create more jobs for young people.
The fund will pay for new six-month work placements for people aged between 16 and 24, who are at risk of long-term unemployment.
Responding to the announcement, Jolanta Lasota, Chief Executive of Ambitious about Autism, said:
“Autistic young people are among the most disadvantaged when it comes to getting on the job ladder, with only 16% of autistic people in full time employment.
“New funding to create more jobs for young people is welcome but it’s crucial that it reaches those who most need help entering employment. Without the right support when moving from education to employment, autistic young people face falling off a cliff edge and out of the job market altogether.
“Funding must support specialist careers advice and employability programmes for autistic young people, such as supported internships, traineeships and apprenticeships.
“We must incentivise employers to engage with diversity to ensure the playing field is levelled for disabled young people.”
ENDS.
For further information contact Cat Ferris on cferris@ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk or call 07850 915716.
Notes to editor
- Ambitious about Autism is the national charity for children and young people with autism. We provide services, raise awareness and understanding, and campaign for change. Through TreeHouse School, Ambitious College and the Rise School, we offer specialist education and support.
- Ambitious about Autism’s national Employ Autism programme is helping autistic people join the workforce by breaking down barriers and increasing confidence in autism and neurodiversity. The programme delivers training, resources and on-going mentorship to a wide range of partners across the UK including employers, careers professionals, parents and young people.
- Supported internships are courses aimed at young people aged 16-25, who have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan and want to move into work but need extra support to do so. Ambitious about Autism is working in partnership to offer supported internships at the Whittington Hospital in North London.
