Being autistic or having a learning disability shouldn’t be a barrier to paid work – but without dedicated support many people struggle to breakthrough.
That’s why a new service has been launched in Salford this week to help 140 local residents achieve their career dreams.
Salford Supported Employment Service, run by Salford City Council and the Growth Company will help people who are currently unemployed to find suitable paid jobs. The service will provide people with one to one support, including in-work training and guidance for both the new recruit and employer, which can include minor workplace adjustments which could benefit all their employees.
Councillor Phil Cusack, Executive Support Member for Skills, Work and Business at Salford City Council, said: “Unemployment amongst people with autism or learning disabilities is high in Salford. This new service is vital in tackling this. It will make a significant difference to so many lives – people who may have never worked, or those who want to return to work or try something new.
“We have been providing supported internships for young people aged 16 to 24 with autism or learning disabilities for several years and many have gone on to use that experience to get paid jobs.
“This new service is for people aged 18 and over and offers permanent paid employment. We strongly believe that anyone who wants to work should be given the opportunity to do so. This service will help people to find a job that matches their interests and aspirations and will support them in the workplace for as long as needed.”
Michelle Leeson, Managing Director for Employment at the Growth Company said: “People with autism and learning disabilities often bring a different outlook and skill set, making them real assets in an organisation.
“We have extensive experience of working with businesses to provide supported employment. Usually minor changes are needed, such as adapting the interview process, introducing a quiet room or a quiet hour in the staff canteen. There’s value in providing this targeted support to improve diversity and encourage people into careers that have previously been off limits to them.”
Salford is one of only 24 areas in England and Wales to receive the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Local Supported Employment grant funding to provide the new service. Salford City Council will work with the Growth Company over the next two years to find and support individuals and businesses.
To find out more about the Salford Supported Employment service, or email supportedemployment@salford.gov.uk
Drop in sessions are also being held between 10am and 2pm.
Businesses and organisations interested in the scheme can email supportedemployment@salford.gov.uk