The Department of Adult and Community Education would like to welcome AsIAm to the university this coming Saturday 9 Nov.
AsIAm is an Autistic-led advocacy organisation that embraces neuro-affirmative approaches to inclusivity, acceptance and participation. AsIAm's vision is a society in which every Autistic person is accepted “as they are” – equal, valued, and respected. Our purpose is to advocate for an inclusive society for Autistic people that is accessible, accepting and affirming.
We know that 80-85% of Autistic people in Ireland are unemployed or underemployed. This not only has significant financial consequences for our community, but also contributes to social isolation and a loss of independence and dignity. Critically, it represents a major loss of talent to both employers and our society. We know diverse workplaces are more successful and yet the knowledge, experience, expertise, and unique perspective of our community is all too often lost.
This situation can be changed. It will not require vast Government financial investment, or enormous new programmes. Instead, it will require changes to ways of thinking and working, which can often be small, inexpensive, and capable of rapid implementation. Many of these changes will not only benefit Autistic people but all employees, jobseekers and employers.
On Saturday, 9th of November 2024, AsIAm will hold its first Employment Seminar at Maynooth University.