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Strong Local Voice, Strong Local ChampionAnnette Brooke, Lib Dem MP for Mid Dorset & North Poole |
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Annette Brooke MP warns: "Don't write off people with autism"
November 11, 2009 5:38 PM
Annette Brooke MP is backing a National Autistic Society (NAS) 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; many are forced to rely on family and friends for help.
Commenting Annette Brooke MP said: "People with autism have a great deal to offer and I know that many want to work but are unable to get the help and support they need to fulfil their potential. It is crucial 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
That's why I am lending support to this campaign nationally, and locally supporting organisations like Remploy, that do a fantastic job of getting people into work right here in my constituency. I was fortunate enough to spend time this year working on the Autism Bill which really compounded to me the importance of supporting adults with Autism in the workplace.'
Mark Lever, chief executive of the NAS said: "People with autism say their experiences of the employment and benefits system are marred by anxiety, confusion, delays and discrimination.
The Don't Write Me Off report reveals that the majority of the over 300,000 working age adults with autism want to work but are being held back by lack of understanding of their condition.
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