An autistic teenager who featured in Channel 4’s Educating the East End documentary series has called on businesses in Waltham Forest to create better opportunities for people with the condition.
Millions of viewers watched as Christopher Harris, 15, received support in preparation for the world of work at Frederick Bremer School in Walthamstow.
Now he and friend Jordan Fanwell, also 15, are calling for change more to be done to help young people in their position.
As members of the National Autistic Society (NAS) Young Campaigners group, the pair contacted Stella Creasy MP earlier this year to ask her to speak to local employers about the challenges they face.
They are also asking employers to fill out a survey to find out more about their understanding of autism, with a view to improving opportunities.
Christopher Harris featured in the series Educating the East End
Research by NAS shows only 15 per cent of adults with autism are in full-time, paid employment.
According to the Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services, 26 per cent of graduates with autism are unemployed - around twice the proportion of any other disability group.
In a joint statement Jordan and Christopher said: “We are talented artists and would like careers as anime artists.
“We get lots of support from the teachers at our school and enjoy doing interesting projects and developing our portfolio of artwork.
“However, because of our autism we will not be able to achieve the right number of GSCE’s to qualify for most of the college courses. This will make it hard for us to get a job.”
Shane Samarasinghe, senior NAS campaigns officer, said: “Simple adjustments like making job interviews more accessible and providing support so that those in work understand the ‘unwritten rules’ of the workplace can unlock the potential of a whole section of society ready and willing to work.
“Jordan and Christopher have an inspiring message which must be heard by local decision makers and businesses.”
Employers can fill out the survey here
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here