Jobcentre is ‘autism friendly’

Paisley Jobcentre is one of just seven in Scotland to have been made more autism-friendly.

Autistic jobseekers will feel more relaxed due to less harsh lighting and quieter and calmer interview areas.

Work coaches have received training and awareness videos to make the experience easier.

The Paisley High Street base has now been accredited by the National Autistic Society (NAS) following a successful pilot.

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.

Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work, 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 to our jobcentre staff, we are helping to deliver more employment opportunities for those on the autism spectrum, as we work towards seeing one million more disabled people in work by 2027.

“Everyone deserves an equal opportunity to work, and this government has ambitious plans to ensure those with special educational needs have the tools they need to have fulfilling careers – from schools through to jobcentres.”

Christine Flintoft-Smith, head of autism accreditation at the National Autistic Society, said:“We’re really pleased that the pilot has been a success and look forward to exploring ways to help more Jobcentres work better for autistic people.”