Based on NHS and National Autistic Society (NAS) data, an estimated 40,000 autistic adults are currently without work in the London area. Many of these are capable, eager and searching for opportunities to apply their skills and explore their passions. Our Autism Community Volunteering (ACV) project helps adults who are struggling to find an outlet for their talents with applying for various volunteering positions, tailored to suit their aspirations, while enriching the London community.
Only 10% of autistic adults receive employment support, while 53% say they want it (National Autistic Society survey). Only 14% of adults with autism are in full time paid employment and 77% of those who are unemployed say that they would like to work given the right experience (NAS survey). The fear of applying for jobs can be an extremely daunting task to tackle alone for those with autism. Compounding anxiety, lack of confidence and communication difficulties can block the door for them
ACV is a well-established project that has placed over 250 autistic volunteers in a range of organisations, enabling them to gain experience, develop communication skills and confidence which could lead to paid work. The programme helps individuals with all things related to the employment process, such as: DBS checks, application forms, workshops for interview skills and work communication, confidence groups, accompaniment meetings, safeguarding volunteers, regular feedback and communication.
The project will help support 100 autistic adults into volunteer placements each year. Rather than placing people in available slots within partner organisations, we take time to get to know the potential volunteer, their interests, and what they would like to achieve long-term. Linking into an individual's interests also helps with building confidence and overcoming anxiety, increasing the sustainability and success rate of placements. Some of our volunteers end up being offered paid employment
This project has provided additional documentation in a DOCX file (projdoc.docx).
