In this update, we share key resources to support Autistic individuals and their employers, highlight our favourite research on Autistics in the workplace, feature two Autistic accounts of workplace accommodations and showcase recent media contributions that bring lived experience into action.
This article from ABC News highlights the importance of meaningful work for Autistic people and the challenges that many of us face. Reframing Autism‘s CEO, Sharon Fraser, is quoted: “When Autistic people are appropriately accommodated, we bring some really impressive gifts to any workplace.”
Have you ever wondered how to articulate your needs at work? In this call to action from AuDHD lawyer Justine Field, she shares her frustrating experience in advocating for workplace accommodations, outlines measures that can help build neuroinclusive workplaces and provides resources for her neurokin facing similar challenges.
Explore Autistic advocate Shadia Hancock’s insights on accessible employment for Autistic individuals. From workplace modifications and support structures to the importance of flexible roles, this guide offers practical strategies to foster inclusive employment and neurodiversity, addressing common workplace challenges faced by the Autistic community.
We love this research which highlights that Autistic people are ‘more likely to intervene when they witness dysfunction or misconduct in an organisational context; they are also less likely to engage in unethical behaviour in general.’
Hartman, L.M., & Hartman, B.L. (2024). An ethical advantage of autistic employees in the workplace. Frontiers in Psychology, Volume (15), Article 1364691. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.
Accessibility and support needs are most easily met when they are centred in your organisational practices and easy to find. Therefore, at Reframing Autism, we encourage our staff to include their unique working hours (we are all part-time), communication preferences and any support needs in their Microsoft Teams status message and as an internal email signature.
It’s a small, neuro-affirming step that makes important information visible to our co-workers – setting clear expectations, supporting accessibility, and easing the load on executive functioning across the team.
Book one of our tailored workshops for your business on Supporting Neurodivergent Employees.
This presentation delves into the unique strengths and benefits that neurodivergent individuals bring to the workplace and addresses the challenges that they may face – from sensory sensitivities to social misunderstandings – and how these can impact their success in a traditional environment.
Most importantly, the presentation provides practical strategies and best practices for employers who want to foster a more inclusive environment for their teams.
Are you looking for opportunities to share your lived experience or be a part of Autism Research? If so, sign up for our Engagement List. This list allows us to contact you to be considered for lived experience opportunities that match your experience, such as research participant requests, advisory groups, and focus groups.
The Reframing Autism team would like to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we have the privilege to learn, work, and grow. Whilst we gather on many different parts of this Country, the RA team walk on the land of the Awabakal, Birpai, Whadjak, and Wiradjuri peoples.
We are committed to honouring the rich culture of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of this Country, and the diversity and learning opportunities with which they provide us. We extend our gratitude and respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and to all Elders past and present, for their wisdom, their resilience, and for helping this Country to heal.
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