Introduction to Breakthrough

Top tips for before and during the interview

Give structure and clarity

Before the interview, tell your candidate what to expect. Let them know:

• how the interview will be structured
• the types of questions you will ask
• how long the interview will take

You could do this in writing or use visual aids.

Be mindful of communication styles

Some people might feel overwhelmed by social nuances. They may prefer you to be direct and literal in your communication style to help avoid confusion. Make sure they have extra time for responses and be prepared to rephrase or clarify questions.

Share interview questions ahead of time

When you are interviewing someone with autism or a learning disability, it is a good idea to send the interview questions in advance. Responding to questions quickly can be tough for some candidates, and having a bit more time to process the questions will allow them to answer thoughtfully.

Offer alternative assessment methods

Consider “working interviews” or other practical assessments that highlight skills in a less traditional format.

Focus on abilities, not assumptions

Do not let assumptions about disability influence your evaluation. Assess candidates based on their skills and potential to perform the job.

Discuss reasonable adjustments

Ask about accommodations they might need for the interview and the role. Make sure they have a fair and comfortable experience.

Consider the physical environment

Social situations can feel intense for people on the autism spectrum, especially when there’s pressure to keep eye contact or sit directly across from someone. A simple way to make things feel more relaxed is to sit at a 90-degree angle instead of directly facing them during an interview.

Be aware of disclosure

Candidates may choose to disclose their disability at any point in the process. Respect their decision and be prepared to discuss potential adjustments.

During Employment

Give ongoing support

Offer mentorship, job coaching, or other forms of support to help the individual fit in to the workplace and succeed in their role.

Make reasonable adjustments

This could include flexible working hours, assistive technology, a quiet workspace, or changes to tasks or communication methods.

Promote a supportive culture

Educate other employees about autism and learning disabilities to promote understanding and inclusion. Recognise that having a diverse team can have a positive impact on everyone. Help the person feel part of the team.

Focus on strengths

Recognise and use the unique skills and perspectives that people with autism and learning disabilities can bring to the workplace.

Offer clear and consistent communication

Give regular feedback, use clear and simple language, and be patient in explaining tasks and expectations.

Address potential challenges proactively

Be prepared to address problems such as sensory overload, communication difficulties, or changes in routine. You can offer solutions like:

• using noise-cancelling headphones
• alternative communication methods
• structured schedules
• working from home
• attending team meetings online instead of in person

Job carving

Job carving involves creating, modifying, or customising a job so it is suitable for a particular individual while at the same time meeting the needs of an employer.

The Disability Confident scheme

We encourage employers to consider being part of the Disability Confident scheme. Disability Confident is creating a movement of change, encouraging employers to think differently about disability and take action to improve how they recruit, retain, and develop disabled people.

Information about employing disabled people and how the Disability Confident employer scheme can help your business is available at the Disability Confident Scheme on GOV.UK.

Support for employers

If your employees have learning disabilities or autism learning a new role may take a bit longer than usual or need a different approach. Breakthrough Supported Employment works with you to assist people in their new role.

We do this by:

• doing a task analysis of the role
• collaborating with you and your new employee until they can work independently
• advising which reasonable adjustments may be needed

We are only a phone call away to offer support or if there is a change in the role.

Get involved with Breakthrough Supported Employment

We are always looking to build relationships with local employers. We would love to hear from you if you can offer:

• mentoring
• work tasters
• work experience
• site visits
• mock interviews
• CV reviews
• recruitment workshops on applying for roles
• paid employment

Contact us

You can get in touch with us by:

• email: breakthrough.employment@bracknell-forest.gov.uk
• phone: 01344 354295

Useful resources

Autism Berkshire

Autism Berkshire supports autistic people and their families in Berkshire.

Get in touch with Autism Berkshire by:

Email: contact@autismberkshire.org.uk 

Telephone: 01189 594594

National Autistic Society

The National Autistic Society supports autistic people and their families in the UK.

See Ability

See Ability supports people with autism or learning difficulties who also have sight loss.

Email: enquiries@seeability.org 

Telephone: 01372 755000

Scope

Scope works to create opportunities for disabled people and change attitudes towards disabilities. 

Get in touch with Scope by:

Email: helpline@scope.org.uk 

Telephone: 0808 800 3333