Breaking down employment barriers

Traditional formal interview processes and lengthy job applications are just two of the barriers that often stop autistic jobseekers from finding their dream jobs.

At Autism East Midlands, the Employment Team is fully aware of the many challenges faced. Each week the team’s advisors meet with autistic people to support them through the job seeking process and to achieve their potential and goals.

After recently joining forces with supermarket giant Sainsbury’s though, two of their clients have managed to secure roles at one of its Nottinghamshire sites.

Both Christian, 21, and Eddie, 22, have begun their new jobs, working within the warehouse at Beeston. It has given them the opportunity to learn new skills and kick start their career with the major employer.

It was the National Autistic Society who first got in touch with AEM about the possible roles and introduced the two organisations and the partnership with Sainsbury’s began.

“Sainsbury’s really is a leader in its field and it soon became clear that they had an autism-friendly recruitment process,” explained AEM’s Employment Coach, Emma Desmond.

Inclusive

“They have created an inclusive environment, where neuro diverse people are made very welcome. All the relevant adjustments are made to make the environment right to help people succeed in the workplace.”

The team initially met with Christian and Eddie, carried out an assessment to see what support they might need and what adjustments might need to be made. This is something they always do to match candidates with the right employer and ensure the right support is in place.

Explained Emma: “We put forward Christian and Eddie for the roles and Sainsbury’s offered them the opportunity to visit the site, look around and have an informal chat.”

“Not everyone excels during a traditional formal interview, but Sainsbury’s has created an inclusive environment for employees with additional needs. They don’t use the traditional route of job applications and interviews and, in this case, it worked well for both the candidates and the employer.”

“We wish them all the very best in their new roles.”

Sainsbury’s Site Administrator, Daniel Roach said: "I am thrilled to work for an employer where I can be afforded the opportunity to work with and support young neuro divergent people like Christian and Eddie. They have already made great progress in their roles and are a testament to what neuro divergent people can be capable of if they are given the right work environments and support."

• To find out more about how AEM supports autistic people to find work, click here > Autism East Midlands | Employment services