Don't Write Off People with Autism

20 Nov 2009

Diane is backing a National Autistic Society campaign to stop adults with autism being written-off by the employment and benefits system. A new report by the NAS reveals a third of people with the condition currently live without a job and without benefits and many are forced to rely on friends and family for help.

Diane said today:

“People with autism have a great deal to offer. We know that many want to work but are unable get the help and support they need to fulfil their potential. It’s vital that people with serious, lifelong and disabling conditions such as autism get the help they need when seeking employment and are supported financially when they cannot work.

NAS have told me that people with autism can experience inadequate job-seeking support, unnecessary and distressing delays in payment or are being denied essential benefits altogether. This is not good enough and that is why I am supporting the Don’t Write Me Off campaign.”

Mark Lever, chief executive of NAS said:

“People with autism say their experiences of the employment and benefits system are marred by anxiety, confusion, delays and discrimination. It is scandalous that thousands of people with autism are being consigned to poverty by a complex and counter-productive benefits system. We are delighted to have the support of Diane Abbott MP and strongly urge other MPs to follow her lead. We will be campaigning until the Government’s “no-one written off” pledge is reality for people with autism.”

Ends

For more information on the Don't Write Me Off campaign, visit www.autism.org.uk/dontwritemeoff



back ⇢