.png)
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, 29 March, 2025, AsIAm will hold its second Employment Seminar at the National College of Ireland
AsIAm Employment Seminar Saturday March 29 9.30am-5pm (registration opens at 9am).
Morning Session 09:30-13:30
The morning session is open to Autistic jobseekers, employers, educators, career guidance practitioners, caregivers, and anyone interested in creating inclusive workplaces for the Autism community.
Afternoon Session 14:30-17:00 - Employment Workshops. The afternoon session is strictly for Autistic Jobseekers.
09:00: Registration Opens
09:30-10:40 Adam Harris Opening Address
10:40-11:00 Department of Social Protection - Intreo
Talk: An overview of the Recruitment, Work Placement, Financial and Disability supports available to employers (information about supports for jobseekers will be available at DSP information stand).
11:00:11:20 Morning Break
11:20-12:20 Keynote Speaker: James Cusack Chief Executive at Autistica, the UK's autism research charity.
Talk: The Buckland Review of Autism Employment: Report and Recommendations
12:20:12:25:: Movement Break
12:25-12:55: Employment Partner Talk: Insurance Ireland
12:55-13:10: David Cormack - NCI Talk:
New NCI Programme - Certificate in Harnessing Neurodiversity in the Modern Workplace.
13:10-13:30: Mairéad McHale - AsIAm Employment Officer.
Talk: AsIAm Employment Programme
13:30-14:30: Lunch
A light lunch will be provided.
Opportunity to network, and visit the AsIAm and other information stands.
Morning Seminar Ends
14:30-17:00: Afternoon Breakout Sessions. Strictly for Autistic Jobseekers
Breakout 1: Job Search Strategy
Breakout 2: CV Development and Letters of Application
Breakout 3: Interview Skills
This is a free event.
Seminar sponsored by Bank of Ireland and Community Foundation Ireland.
With thanks to the National College of Ireland, for hosting this AsIAm Employment Seminar.
