While the understanding of autism has come a long way in recent years, people on the spectrum still face stigma in the workplace, and may find it harder to secure a job than their peers. According to Autism Policy and Services: Employment research, there were around 922,000 working-age disabled people with autism in the UK in 2024/2025; just 34.0% of these were in employment, compared to 55.3% of disabled people overall.
An Easingwold-based business opened in 2023, the Autism Plus Chocolate Shop & Café, is doing its bit to combat the stigma! The café provides young local adults with autism and learning disabilities opportunities to gain supported work experience, learn new skills, and develop the confidence to engage in employment, with duties ranging from serving customers and preparing food to managing stock and operating the till. Autism Plus also runs the Rise2Thrive project, which offers all-age employment support for neurodivergent adults across York and North Yorkshire.
Visit autismplus.co.uk/contact or call 01347 665065 if you’re interested in a placement at the Autism Plus Chocolate Shop & Café. Visit www.york.gov.uk/mental-health/autism-support to find out more about autism support services in the local area.
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