About this topic
During the establishment of the EIS Disabled Members Network in 2021, members noted the need for improved understanding of autism in the workplace and support for autistic workers.
In this topic, we will draw on work undertaken by an EIS focus group of autistic members, and a related small-sample survey.
We will look at increasing knowledge and understanding of autism and facilitate proactive changes that can make workplaces more equitable for autistic workers.
The work of the Autism Appropriate Workplaces Focus Group informed several EIS learning events and is intended to culminate in the publication of guidance for Reps on this topic.
The expert videos are provided by Marion McLaughlin, CEO of Autism Understanding Scotland.
Learning points:
Employers can implement measures that will help autistic workers, including, for example:
Reflective question
How would a member in your LA find out about their right to request reasonable adjustments, and the current process for making requests? Is this a supportive process, with a good understanding of the employer’s duties under the Equality Act (2010)?
The Equality Act (2010) protected characteristic of “Disability” includes any condition or impairment that has ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’ negative impact on a person’s ability to do normal daily activities. Autism is included under this characteristic. However, it is important to understand that a legal framework is not the same as someone’s lived experience. Many autistic people do not identify as disabled, and autism is a difference – not an impairment.
Autistic people do not need a diagnosis of autism to request reasonable adjustments, and adjustments should consider individual needs. It is unhelpful when employers assume what an autistic person will need, however it may be useful to research a range of possible adjustments.
Public bodies, such as local authorities are required to proactively anticipate and prevent discrimination against people with disabilities. What the inclusion of autism within this protected characteristic means, therefore, is that autistic people are entitled to request reasonable adjustments and are protected from unfair treatment, whether direct or indirect, based on them being autistic.
Autistic teachers and lecturers have a right to work that is accessible and fair, and where they are valued to fully contribute their knowledge and skills.
View our archived material on Fair-Work within Scotland’s education system