AN event to encourage employers to recruit people with autistic spectrum condition will be held next week.

Worcestershire County Council and Fortis Living, have joined forces with CIPD Gloucestershire and CIPD Hereford and Worcester for the event.

Neural diversity – or neurodiversity – describes those in the population who have a different thinking process than those who are neurotypical.  The event aims to help bring about a better understanding of how this can be acknowledged and aided in workplaces as well as benefit productivity.

It will include a ‘drop in’ to enlighten employers on the benefits of having neuro diverse people working for them and what small adjustments are needed to help them thrive in their roles. 

The aim is to explore and showcase the different options and opportunities when employing adults with ASC. 

A number of local businesses who are taking part will share their experiences and highlight the benefits of employing people with the condition.

It is estimated that there are around 700,000 people in the UK who live with autism and a significant proportion of them struggle with securing jobs due to lack of support and insufficient awareness about the spectrum. 

Tom Piotrowski, diversity and inclusion advisor at Fortis Living, said: “As a large local employer with a strong social purpose we are always looking for ways to promote social inclusion. 

"This also means creating inclusive workplaces where people can thrive and realise their potential. 

"We look forward to hearing from and meeting applicants who are on the autistic spectrum. 

"We certainly recognise they have a lot to offer; like other employers on the day we will be talking about job opportunities within our business.”

 Councillor Adrian Hardman, cabinet member for Adult Social Care for Worcestershire County Council, said: “Our organisation greatly benefits from hiring people who have diverse thinking patterns. 

"This is something we wholeheartedly support and are delighted to be teaming up with Fortis Living to run this important event. 

"By sharing our experiences, we hope to encourage and inspire other businesses and organisations to do the same.”

The free event will take place between 10.30am and 3pm on Wednesday, March 27 at the Worcester Arena, Hylton Road. 

Anyone wishing to attend needs to register beforehand at eventbrite.co.uk

To book a stand, companies should email autismgroups@worcestershire.gov.uk.