Ryan was referred to our Rise2Thrive programme from Jobcentre Plus shortly after receiving an autism diagnosis. During the initial appointment Ryan showed limited verbal communication, relying on non-verbal cues such as pointing, nodding and using his phone to express his needs.
Before exploring employment opportunities, Ryan required support in building his confidence as he faced challenges interacting with new individuals and experienced significant social anxiety. Both Ryans parents work full time and therefore Ryan needed to be able to confidentially support himself to apply for jobs and put himself in front of employers which he was struggling with.
Ryans keyworker focused on supporting to develop his CV and covering letter, as he had been unemployed for 5 years. During this process the keyworker developed rapport and trust with Ryan to enable him to engage in the support. Ryan confided that he was worried about going into employment despite his desire to work. Having not interacted with more than a handful of people for several years, it was essential that his keyworker supported him to develop his social skills and social confidence.
“Ryan was struggling in so many aspects when he started on our programme, but through developing trust with Ryan we were able to slowly build his confidence and help him overcome many barriers he faced on his journey to paid work”
We supported Ryan to access our Multiply programme, where he could receive support to apply for Personal Independence Payments, giving him some financial flexibility and independence. We also supported Ryan to move to the Low Work Capability group with Jobcentre Plus, taking the pressure of being mandated to finding work from Ryan.
We worked with Ryan to boost his confidence over several weeks of dedicated one to one support, Ryan was also supported to attend a wellbeing programme where he worked alongside others whilst better understanding his wellbeing and needs. Ryan was very nervous but with our support was able to complete the programme.
Our team supported Ryan to be successful in gaining volunteering for 2 days each week, gaining valuable work related experience and further developing his confidence and self esteem. Through our support Ryan has become more open to engaging with others and his confidence has significantly increased.
“I have liked everything about the support. Autism Plus have helped me do things I have never been able to do”
