Adult DD AUDHD struggling to find work

[NewKitchenDiner]

My DD is 25 and has been looking for a job since leaving University, with zero success. Due to having an ASD and ADHD diagnosis she struggles with a few things but I know she’s doing her best. Some of the jobs she’s gone for had been unsuitable, but there were others that given an opportunity, she could probably do, She does have savings over 16k (inheritance left to her) but could she claim for anything? Any advice welcome, thanks

Sorry, anyone gone through this? Advice welcome, thanks.

DD wouldn’t be eligible for UC if she has savings over £16k.

Depending on her needs, she may be eligible for PIP if she isn’t already receiving it. This has nothing to do with working or not.

Has DD spoken to the university’s careers department?

Yes, she has. DD has told me they only signposted her details, no luck with that either unfortunately.

It is difficult for a lot of young graduates at the moment.

Is she hasn't already try contacting your local jobcentre plus. Even if she is ineligible for universal credit because of savings they might be able to signpost her to free courses to improve her skill set. Our local further education colleges run courses aimed at the unemployed.

ds1 eventually managed to secure a post by applying for a temporary role - less applicants I think - but will gain him a bit of relevant job experience - so don't eliminate these from the job search.

Is she ticking the disability box on her applications. The hours I have spent trying to persuade ds1 it would actually be a good idea to do so even if he wants to get a job without admitting he is autistic.

Volunteer work might give her something additional to put on her CV and keep her occupied. Charity shops are an obvious one round us but there are lots of other things if retail is not her thing. Our local council website lists opportunities.

Not sure if she knows what field she wants to go in but speculative letters to smaller companies might be a way in even if she just asks for work experience. ds1 has got absolutely nowhere with the big graduate programmes as I think they get masses of applicants but slightly more successful with smaller companies.

Controversial but ds1 is using AI to help target his job applications. The technique that is working best for him is to start on his own and then use AI to improve wording / correct errors. Also to make sure each application is tailored to the job being applied for.

I would encourage DD to get back in touch with the university’s careers department. They can provide more support than only signposting.

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

It is also worth looking at what support is available locally for disabled job seekers. 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 you are in (some parts of) Manchester, look at Working Well and (I think it may be Stockport only) Pure Innovations.

DD, or you if appointee, could also look at making a credits only new style ESA claim if she has limited capability for work or limited capability for work and work-related activities. She wouldn’t receive any money if she hasn’t paid enough NI, but she will receive credits.

Does she have any work experience @NewKitchenDiner?

What are her interests or skills? I’d look at volunteering in the first instance if she hasn’t got any work experience. There’s an organisation called Enable supported employment services which may be helpful if there is one in your area?

Hi,
Like your DD, i also feel the pinch of this problem. has she got any work experience? what did she study at university? consider perhaps the possibility of seeing if she can volunteer in that field or maybe building up her employability skills like improving her CV or practicing interview skills to understand where she may be falling short, or is it something like an executive function problem? there is the AtW (Access to work) scheme which she may benefit from.