Why employing neurodivergent workers is key to building a better future

New Civil Engineer 11/05/23

J.Murphy & Sons Limited (Murphy) has become the first UK construction company to sign up the Ambitious about Autism Covenant for Employers (ACE) and join the Employ Autism Programme.

As part of the new partnership, Murphy will offer paid internships to autistic candidates with Ambitious about Autism providing training to enable Murphy to be support its autistic employees, 

In this article, Murphy's Group People and Communications Director, Dawn Moore, talks about the partnership, the autism employment gap and the benefits a neurodiverse workforce can bring to the construction industry.

Autism and ADHD: Fears girls and women are continuine to 'fall through the net'

ITV 16/05/23

History and politics student Charlotte is a woman in Wales awaiting an autism diagnosis. 

"If you slip through the net the adult system is cruel. It leaves a lot of girls and women behind without the support they need, not only in school but in their workplaces."

The Welsh Government has committed an additional £12m over 3 years to improve neurodivergence services, including a 24 hour helpline. 

New guide for first responders on how to recognise autistic meltdowns

Learning Disability Today 16/05/23

A new guide for police officers and other professionals who may come into contact with an autistic person experiencing a meltdown has been developed. 

The book, created by autism advocate Viv Dawes, provides practical advice on recognising autism meltdowns and shutdowns and how to respond appropriately. 

You can read the guide here. 

Pilot planned for SEND teacher apprenticeship

Schools Week 18/05/23

The government's flagship teacher training provider will pilot a new SEND-specific course. 

The 14-month course will be completed in a special school, with a 6-week placement in a mainstream setting.

If the scheme is successful, it will be rolled out nationally next September. 

*We post news stories about autism on the live feed once a week on a Thursday. If you come across any news stories related to autism or Ambitious about Autism, please feel free to email us at [email protected].