AQW 24253/22-27

Ms Kate Nicholl
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 12/03/2025
Answered On Date: 25/03/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any steps her Department is taking to support more people with autism into the workplace.

Answer:

I recognise that many learners with special educational needs, including those who are autistic, face greater barriers at the point of leaving school and transitioning onto appropriate education, training and employment pathways. I am committed to taking action to address this issue and I expect to receive a report shortly from my officials who have been examining post-school provision for young people with special educational needs. My Department offers a range of skills provision which include measures to support individuals who face additional barriers, including autism, to enable them to build the skills and qualifications needed to compete for employment opportunities at all levels. Amongst these measures are Breaking Barriers in education, Skill Up and Step Up’s Disability Access Route to Employment and Education (DARE). Additionally, targeted support for Widening Participation into higher education is provided through interventions and financial support for several target groups, including those with a disability (physical, sensory or learning) including Autism. My Department’s Careers Service is also working to develop and introduce additional interactive technology which can address the specific issues autistic people face when trying to access careers information and advice.