Breaking down barriers – Supporting employment for young people with learning disabilities and/or autism
Engage to Change recently published a research paper on supporting young people with learning disabilities and/or autism in transition. The paper shows that the project has provided job coach support and a supported employment model to 1,008 young people aged 16 to 25 throughout Wales since its launch. The paper highlights the low levels of employment for people with learning disabilities and/or autism and emphasises the importance of supported employment and internship approaches.
Promising approaches for improving employment outcomes
The research found that age and previous work experience were associated with higher employment rates, and that paid placements and supported internships were particularly effective in increasing employment rates. The research shows that high-quality work experience that is properly organised, supported, and resourced while young people are still in school or college can lead to better employment outcomes.
Summary of the key findings from the research
- Engage to Change provided job coach support and a supported employment model to 1,008 young people aged 16 to 25 throughout Wales over the first 5 years of the project.
- Of these 1,008 young people, 231 found paid employment, a rate of 23% based on referrals.
- Employment rates were higher for autistic young people at 27%.
- Age and previous work experience were associated with higher employment rates, with 70% of older cohorts having had previous work experience.
- Paid placements and supported internships were found to be particularly effective in increasing employment rates, achieving an employment rate of 37% when used together.
Strategies to consider moving forward
In conclusion, the research highlights the barriers that young people with learning disabilities and/or autism face when trying to secure employment. However, it also shows that with the right support, including high-quality work experience and supported employment opportunities, these young people can improve their job prospects. The findings call for greater investment in supported employment and internship approaches, along with transition planning that incorporates job coaching and preparation for the workforce. By doing so, we can help young people with learning disabilities and/or autism overcome employment barriers and achieve greater independence and success in their careers going forward.
If you are interested in supporting young people with learning disabilities and/or autism in their transition to employment, we encourage you to read the full research report below.
Note: The data in this report relates to the first 5 years of the project up until 2021.
English: English Report
Welsh: Welsh report