ABSTRACT
Supported employment can increase feelings of self-worth for the individual on the spectrum, whilst helping to increase public awareness and understanding of autism. There are various types of employment schemes available for people on the autism spectrum in the UK. These schemes, if successful, will, in turn, increase these individuals' independence and feelings of self-esteem: supported employment, sheltered workshops, consultancy services, and mentoring. Support must be made available to adults with autism regardless of their place on the autism spectrum. In general, supported employment is preferred to sheltered employment, because supported employment aims to introduce individuals into competitive, rather than sheltered work positions. Job placements are individualised, based on the person's specific strengths and previous work experience. The aim of supported employment programmes is to enable individuals with autism to be contributing members of the workforce through the provision of a stable and predictable work environment.
