DD adult (25) can’t secure a job..

[PeachPurple]

my adult DD has ASD/ADHD. She recently finished her degree but cannot even get a job interview. Ive suggested she look at get a pt role, ie. retail work, etc. but again, nothing. She has very little work experience which I expect doesn’t help, but I’ve no idea how to help her. My partner has suggested care work (amongst other ideas) but she says it’s not her thing, and that the only reason she wants a job is to get a little flat and to pay the bills. Fair enough, but if you don’t know what interests you, how can you even attempt an interview!

Im at a loss and she’s just flounced off now as she says it’s all taking too long.
Has anyone gone through this, what helped? Also, would she be entitled to any benefits if she was unable to secure a job? Thank you, Emma

Has DD spoken to the careers service at her university?

Scope offers some employment support. Though it can be limited.

Depending on where you live there are some local schemes. For example, if you happen to live in Sutton, Mencap has an employment support service. Last time I looked, it was only in Sutton at the moment. If you happen to live in South Yorkshire, have a look at Working Win. Although I know people have had mixed experiences. If in (some parts of) Manchester, look at Working Well and (I think it may be Stockport only) Pure Innovations.

DD, or someone as her appointee if necessary, can apply for universal credit if her savings are below £16k. If she is unable to work/her ability to work is limited, she can seek a fit note from the GP and go through the work capability assessment process.

Depending on DD’s needs, she may be eligible for PIP. This isn’t based on whether DD works or not.

It is a really tough environment for new graduates at the moment.

You could help by going over her cv and making sure no errors and also helping her do job searches using different keywords. Also spend time making sure that the CV meets as best you can the job specification and requirement. Better to do fewer and well targeted applications than a shotgun approach I think.

ds1 (also graduated in 2025) got a job eventually by going for a temporary role. I guess because less attractive to others so don't dismiss these from the search. Like your dd he didn't have a lot of work experience although had had a couple of summer cleaning jobs so even if this does not last long it will add to his cv. Another possibility would be voluntary work - in charity shops for instance or I think most councils will have a list of voluntary opportunities so should find something that might appeal and give her experience.

It is also worth contacting your local jobcentre. As well as potential benefits they should be able to help with the jobsearch itself and signpost to courses that might give her more employability skills. Also things like helping with cv and interview skills. Both mine have found chatting to the university careers service helpful.

Best of luck.