EMPLOYMENT

Getting work is not easy. Before you start applying for work, you need to think about getting the following things:

• What skills do I have to offer an employer?
• What type of work would I be good at?
• What type of work would I enjoy?
• What type of work would I dislike?
• What type of place would I be able to work in?
• How many hours a week can I manage?

All of these issues need to be thought about before you begin to look for work. The links below will take you to some useful tools to help you plan for employment:

Planning your career

Improving your career through learning

Advice and Funding

Volunteering

If you know the type of work you are looking for, you may want to think about working as a volunteer first.  This is work that you do not get paid for, however you will gain lots of experience and be able to test your skills in a real job.  Many voluntary placements will give you additional training and help you to gain qualifications. You will also get a reference which will show a future employer that you can do the job for which you are applying.  Most areas have a volunteer bureau, but you can also search for local opportunities at: www.do-it.org.uk

Benefits

If you are thinking about starting work or have been offered a job, check out how your benefits will be affected.

Applying for work

So now you know what type of work you are looking for and feel ready to start applying for work.

At this stage, if you haven't done so already, it would be good to seek help from one of the many organisations that can support you in applying for work and attending interviews.  They will also help with the transition or changes to any benefits you receive.

Employment Contacts: Directgov - Directories

Create a CV

Finding a job

Applications and interviews

Starting a new job

Information specifically for people with an ASD:

Employment - NAS

Employing a person with ASD

Take a look at the facts about employing a person with ASD:

Employers - NAS