World Autism Awareness Week has kick started and the aim is to help make the world a friendlier place for those affected by the condition.
For life can be pretty challenging for both autistic people and their families. According to the National Autistic Society, only 16% of autistic adults in the UK are in full-time paid employment, and only 32% are in some kind of paid work.
At Surrey Choices, we offer an EmployAbility Service which helps to support adults by finding work placements, training, volunteer opportunities and paid work with employers.
Carolyn Tucker, winner in the ‘Most Inspirational Social Care Professional’ category at the National Autistic Society’s Autism Professional Awards 2018, supports people who may have traditionally found it difficult to secure employment.
She said: “I have noticed over the last five years I work with a much higher percentage of people who come under the Autistic Spectrum. Everyone under this spectrum is different and I feel very strongly that it is wrong to label people.
“I look at each individual, their strengths, their fears, what they are able to do and what is difficult for them.
“I always get to know each customer well. They have to be able to trust me before they can move forward. My goal is to always find my customers a job that dovetails their skills with employers who accept not only our support and training but learn to accept wholeheartedly their new employee into their organisation inclusively.”
Christina Earl, Senior Operations Manager for Surrey Choices, commented: “Carolyn makes a real difference to the lives of people she cares for. She consistently goes above and beyond for our customers and their families.”
Surrey Choices provides a wide range of employment and community support, enabling adults with support needs or disabilities to gain independence and learn skills that will help them find paid or voluntary work.
To find out more about the services and support available at Surrey Choices, email info@surreychoices.com or call 01483 806806.