Local MP warns: "Don't write off people with autism"

12.00.00am GMT Wed 18th Nov 2009

John Thurso MP is backing a National Autistic Society (NAS) campaign to stop adults with autism being written-off by the employment and benefits system. A new report by the NAS reveals a third of people with the condition currently live without a job and without benefits; many are forced to rely on family and friends for help.

John Thurso said:

"People with autism have a great deal to offer and we know that many want to work but are unable to get the help and support they need to fulfil their potential. It is crucial that people with serious, lifelong and disabling conditions such as autism get the help they need when seeking employment and are supported financially when they cannot work."

Only 15% of adults with autism in the UK are in fulltime paid employment. The Don't write me off report reveals that the majority of the over 300,000 working age adults with autism want to work but are being held back by a lack of understanding of autism amongst employment and benefits advisors at Jobcentre Plus and a dearth of specialist employment services. As a result they often experience inadequate job-seeking support, unnecessary and distressing delays in payment, or are being denied essential benefits altogether.

Mark Lever, Chief of the NAS said:

"People with autism say their experiences of the employment and benefits system are marred by anxiety, confusion, delays and discrimination. It is scandalous that thousands of people with autism are being consigned to poverty by a complex and counter-productive benefits system. We are delighted to have the support of John Thurso and strongly urge other MPS to follow his lead. We will keep campaigning until the Government's "no-one written off" pledge is a reality for people with autism."

Related Link:

National Autistic Society homepage.