Accepted for/Published in: JMIR Research Protocols
Date Submitted: May 22, 2024
Date Accepted: Feb 22, 2025
Improving Accessibility for Work Opportunities for Adults with Autism: A Study Protocol for a Mixed-Method Cohort Study for an End-to-End Supported Workplace Program
ABSTRACT
Background:
Adults with autism have a strong desire and need for employment that matches their strengths, skills, and interests. Yet, they are more likely to be un- or under-employed than their neurotypical peers. Facilitators to successful employment include positive attitudes towards and awareness of autism in the workplace, and provision of adequate support and accommodations, including mental health support. Despite previous workplace programs identifying the need for adapted recruitment and interviewing processes, awareness training, and ongoing employee support, there are no programs that specifically provide these supports and adaptations for autistic employees.
Objective:
In this study protocol, we describe a framework for a new end-to-end supported workplace program for adults with autism that encompasses eight key areas to promote inclusive workplaces and improve recruitment and retention of autistic employees.
Methods:
: Candidates with autism (n = 15) will complete two workplace skills training sessions at the University of Sydney’s Brain and Mind Centre, before attending a tailored interview, onboarding session and paid 12-week placement at consulting firm Ernst and Young (EY). EY managers and colleagues (n = 30) will complete a half-day awareness and inclusion training program before supporting the adults with autism through their 12-week placements. Tailored mental health support will also be provided. This mixed-method cohort study will assess the change in the autistic employees’ daily functioning and wellbeing as well as the change in the managers’ and colleagues’ knowledge, attitude and confidence in working with adults with autism following the training programs. These changes will be analysed using repeated measures ANOVAs.
Results:
Data collection for this study was completed in February 2022. As of November 2024, data analysis is still in progress. The results of the study are expected to be available by the end of 2024.
Conclusions:
This study holds the potential to enhance the recruitment and retention of adults with autism, as well as their overall experience in the workplace. Clinical Trial: Not applicable. This is not a clinical trial
Citation
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