A ‘working’ future for young people with Autism in Sheffield

(formally known as the Supported Employment Project)

We are a registered charity (no: 1068541)

We were stared in April 2003 because it was seen at that time that there was a gap in the provision for young people with ASD who wanted to find employment after the age of 18

Our charity wanted to provide the necessary support to individuals with ASD and to potential employers

ContinuedWe are a unique specialised service which offers

support and guidance to adults with Autism/Aspergers and learning difficulties in all areas of employment

We offer skilled advice and guidance on placements and paid employmentEach young person is treated as an individual

and not as a job outcome We put no time limit on the young person being with usEach young person has full support for as long as he/she needs itWe expect our students to treat their work placement as seriously as paid work because this is good practice and preparation for gaining paid employment

Our support is ongoing and all students in paid employment continue to have our support and guidance.We are also there to support and mentor the employers.

Sheffield College: Autism Support TeamJob Centre PlusConnexionsSocial workersParentsSchools (Sheffield & Rotherham)Other Employment Agencies

At Present (Nov 10);

29 Students in paid work41 Students on work experience placements57 Students on our waiting list

We conduct comprehensive training sessions for our volunteers and external support staff who work with the Centre.Informal counselling for students.A supportive volunteer network.Bi annual socials.Advice and guidance for appropriate support in other areas of life apart from employment.Presentations and workshops for employers, professionals and associates with regards to autism and employment.

Lack of understanding on ASD Fear of the unknown Would having a person with ASD put

extra pressure on their workforce Majority of employers have no

knowledge of ASD, the Equality Act 2010 and what the term reasonable adjustments actually means.

Raising awareness on ASD Breaking down barriers People with ASD blossoming and becoming

confident individuals This confidence expanding into their

personal and social life A learning curve for the young person and

the employer Making the employer readdress their

training and employees needs

Questions

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