Purpose of the Campaign:

 

We urge HM Treasury, led by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Liz Kendall, and Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds MP, to introduce a Financial Bill that incentivizes businesses to employ autistic individuals through tax credits. This petition seeks to drive meaningful change by addressing the stark employment gap faced by autistic people in the UK.

 

What Change Are We Seeking?

 

We propose a tax credit system for businesses that hire autistic individuals, supporting their integration into the workforce and rewarding employers for inclusive practices.

 

The Buckland Review of Autism Employment (February 2024, [full report here]) reveals a critical issue: only 30% of working-age autistic people are employed, compared to 50% of all disabled people and 80% of non-disabled individuals. This gap leaves autistic individuals at risk of poor mental health, diminished well-being, and economic exclusion.

 

The review’s 19 recommendations span five key areas:

- Raising awareness of autism in the workplace

- Supporting career entry or return for autistic individuals

- Adapting recruitment processes to be autism-inclusive

- Providing workplace adjustments and support

- Enabling career progression for autistic employees

 

While these recommendations lay a foundation for change, progress is slow. A tax credit system would accelerate implementation by incentivizing businesses to adopt inclusive practices, access programs like Access to Work, and invest in training and the Disability Confident Scheme. 

 

Employing autistic individuals often requires additional time for mentoring and workplace adjustments. This investment, though valuable, can deter businesses in a time-sensitive economy. Tax credits would offset these costs, making inclusion a viable and attractive option for employers while empowering autistic individuals to contribute meaningfully to society.

 

Why This Matters Now:

 

The employment gap for autistic individuals is not just a statistic—it represents real people facing daily challenges. Unemployment among autistic adults contributes to social isolation, mental health crises, and economic deprivation. Without urgent action, we risk failing a generation of autistic individuals who are eager to work and contribute.

 

My Story:

 

I am a mum of four sons, one of whom is a remarkable 21-year-old autistic young man. Like his siblings, he is talented, determined, and full of potential—but he remains unemployed. Reading his school reports, from preschool to recent training programs, brought me to tears. Despite his relentless efforts and my tireless advocacy—endless meetings, reviews, and searching for opportunities—he faces systemic barriers that hinder his dream of meaningful employment.

 

As a mental health occupational therapist working in crisis pathways, I witness daily the devastating impact of unemployment on mental health and self-worth. My son’s struggle is not unique; it reflects the reality of 7 out of 10 working-age autistic individuals who are unemployed due to inadequate support and systemic failings.

 

Initially, I considered legal action to address these shortcomings, but I believe in the power of positive change. This petition channels my frustration and hope into a practical solution: tax reforms that incentivize businesses to hire autistic individuals, transforming lives and communities.

 

Call to Action:

 

Behind every statistic is a person striving for a chance to thrive. By signing this petition, you support a fairer, more inclusive UK economy that values autistic individuals. Urge the government to introduce tax credits for businesses hiring autistic people, ensuring they have the opportunities they deserve.

 

PLEASE Sign now to start a conversation that makes a real difference!