Inclusive employment focuses on providing equal employment opportunities for individuals with diverse abilities and backgrounds, including those on the autism spectrum or with intellectual disabilities, in competitive paying positions. The approach is based on evidence showing that diversity in the workforce brings new perspectives, creativity, and innovation, and leads to increased productivity and profitability.
This page offers a variety of resources to help employers understand the business case for inclusive employment. Employers who embrace inclusive employment recognize that it is a sound business strategy that can enhance their brand reputation, increase employee retention and engagement, and gain a competitive advantage. To achieve this, employers need to focus on fit, rather than seeing inclusive employment as an act of charity or to fulfilling quotas. Hiring for fit means selecting candidates based on their skills, experience, and potential to contribute to the organization, regardless of their disabilities.
The resources on this page will provide you with the evidence and examples you need to show that inclusive hiring works and that it builds a company’s bottom line.