Grace
Spicer
Autism Awareness
In February 2023. I was given a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder at 21 Years Old.
The average age for an Autism Diagnosis is 4.5 Years Old so statistically, like many others, I have short fallen to crucial support and guidance growing up. This section of my website talks about my work supporting Autism Awareness in Employment, including my report to the UK Government on the Disability Employment Gap and my work with Talkback UK.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a lifelong developmental disability that affects how people communicate and interact with the world There is no definitive set of symptoms for an individual with Autism Spectrum Disorder as each person reacts differently to the condition. But the most common include: Sensitivity to light, sounds and touch, difficulty interacting and communication with others.
Click HERE to find out Further Information on Autism Spectrum Disorder on the NHS Website
The Statistics
Despite a globally growing understanding of Autism and acceptance in society, there is still a severe shortfall in individuals with autism getting into employment.
In 2021 The Office for National Statistics (ONS) says just 29% of autistic adults are in employment. which is one of a lowest employment rates of all disabilities in the UK.
Employment is really important for a person’s mental health, financial stability, independence, and overall quality of life. Unfortunately, many of the tough outcomes tied to unemployment and underemployment are especially common among autistic people. 'Compared to other disabled groups, autistic individuals are less likely to say they feel happy, satisfied with life, or that what they do feels worthwhile.'
Talkback UK and The Spectrum of Strengths Podcast
Shortly after my diagnosis with Autism Spectrum Disorder, I received support from Talkback UK, a charity to support individuals with Autism and Learning Disabilities in all aspects of life from relationships to employment.
In 2025, Talkback became a Virtual Assistant Client of mine to receive my support towards the 'My Autistic Self' Programme. The programme, funded by the NHS is supporting newly diagnosed Autistic Adults across Milton Keynes with 6 week long group sessions, I feel privileged to be working alongside such a great initiative designed to help newly diagnosed Autistic Adults just like me navigate and understand their life!
The Spectrum of Strengths Podcast
I am proud to be the host of the Spectrum of Strengths Podcast with Talkback UK. This podcast offers listeners valuable insights into the world of Talkback, introducing our members and highlighting their remarkable contributions.
I have also been featured as a guest on this podcast, discussing the disparities in autism employment opportunities, the declining uptake of the Disability Confident scheme since COVID-19, and sharing my personal journey of growing up as an undiagnosed autistic woman.
Campaigning with I Have a Voice CIC and The UK Goverment
In 2020 I worked on a Campaign with I Have A Voice to raise Awareness of the Disability Confident Campaign
This Disability Confident Campaign is a Government Scheme introduced in 2013 that is designed to support employers to employ and support disabled people in work. Our champagning highlighted the attention of Justin Tomlinson - The Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work and the DWP.
I wrote a Written Statement to the UK Government Addressing Concerns surrounding the Disability Employment Gap as well as ways to support more disabled people into employment
(please note this document is dated December 2020 and statistics and opinions may differ since)
Resources for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Get support and resources for advice on supporting someone with Autism Spectrum Disorder
For Individuals
The Buckland Review of Autism Employment: report and recommendations (2024)
For Employers
