Autism/Aspergers and employment

[user1490817986]

I have mild autism and due to that and anxiety/depression have never had a job and I'm 26. I feel a bit overwhelmed and feel like I don't stand much of a chance due to my lack of work history and I'm very limited in what I can do, due to sensory issues/processing etc. I have a degree, though.

I would like to work from home but I need to be able to cover my rent and bills. I'm on ESA and DLA and have been since I was 16.

If I went for a job outside the home, it would have to be somewhere quiet, without bright lighting, simple and repetitive work so I don't get overwhelmed, so that rules out most places. I also couldn't work with a group of people.

could you try voluntary work to gain experience?

is there anything like this locally?

www.autismwestmidlands.org.uk/employment/work_choice

www.autismwestmidlands.org.uk/work_place_support

Obviously it's different for everyone but I've found many workplaces to be very helpful when I've disclosed my ASD. I'm actually a teacher now, and to be honest I haven't disclosed that to my job, as I've never received DLA, I was advised that I didn't have to.
My friend is a quality technician for an engineering firm, he does auditing on different things, in an office environment from what I can gather, and went in with no experience, trained from the Bottom up. He disclosed to his employer and apparently lots of his colleagues are the same, so there's definitely people out there who could help.

Thank you for your help.

I've had a look at that link ghosty and I'm pretty sure I have something like that local to me! I'll get some advice from them, thanks.

I really hate being autistic- it makes my life difficult

I'm on nightshifts in a care home which isn't too bad, but you have to interact with people. I can only manage 1-2 shifts a week now after burning out.

Apparently, there's a government drive at the moment to help autistics into employment, so you could see what help is available in your area.