Inspirational stories of how people with autism have been helped into work were shared as a charity toasted its 10 year anniversary. Sheffield’s Autism Centre for Supported Employment honoured service users who have secured jobs or made progress into employment during a celebratory event. Counsellor John Campbell, Lord Mayor of Sheffield, was there to congratulate people with autism, Asperger’s syndrome and learning difficulties who had overcome huge obstacles which come with their condition. Glynis Beck, centre manager, said It is thought about 95 percent of adults with autism are unemployed. “Our centre believes that that with specialist support for the client and the employer they can do the job just as good as, if not better than anyone else.” Loren Parker, aged 24, of Handsworth and 23-year old Simon Green, of Chapeltown, both received awards from Counsellor Campbell in a ceremony at the organisation’s headquarters in The Source Meadowhall. Business Support Loren first went to the centre for help in 2006 and went on to complete NVQ qualifications in business administration before landing a job with Sheffield Council. Simon struggled with social interaction when he began a work experience placement, but, helped by support workers, he landed a job at Primark.

BY MOLLY LYNCH

Molly.lynch@thestar.co.uk

@mollygracelynch