10 Ways for HR to Support Autism Accommodations at Work

Studies reveal a staggering statistic: 50-75% of autistic adults in the US are underemployed or unemployed. A UK survey further underscores this issue, indicating that 51% of surveyed autistic workers believe their skills exceed the requirements of their jobs.

HR departments are responsible for accounting for neurodiverse needs and challenges in the workplace, including those for employees with autism. In this list, we’ve explored 10 ways that HR teams can create more autism-friendly workplaces.  

Encourage open and constructive feedback from employees with autism on how they feel HR policies and workplace conditions are working for them. According to a 2017 study, some of the most common barriers for autistic people when it comes to employment include:

• Negative attitudes or low expectations
• A lack of flexible employment support programmes
• Unfair treatment in the workplace, such as bullying and discrimination
• Issues around access to the working environment (transport etc.)

These are all issues that can be mitigated with the help of a proactive HR department. 

Just like any other employee, it’s important to mark the achievements of employees with autism and to praise their unique skillsets. According to the National Disability Authority of Ireland, workers with autism can display the following strengths:

• High attention to detail, accuracy and quality of work
• Long-term memory capacity, with ability to recall detailed facts and figures
• Strong adherence to routines, rules and regulations and appreciation of repetitious tasks
• Expert, in-depth knowledge of one or more chosen subject areas
• Enhanced ability for pattern recognition
• Being hard working and intensely focused

HR plays an essential role in creating inclusive environments. By implementing the strategies and supports mentioned above, businesses can harness the unique talents and perspectives that neurodivergent employees, including those with autism, bring to the global workforce.