Cerebral Palsy and Autism?

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JayPee

We have a grandson who lives with us and is 21 and has cerebral palsy. All the professionals, school etc all ignored the other obvious issue - autism. "I'd resign from my job if that was true said one!" . He could work if he could find a job that inspired him- otherwise enjoys his own company and online computer network. I work in occupational health and we often see folks who are struggling at work. Surprising how many we think have an alternative reason  for the struggle and recommend they seek  out a formal diagnosis. Not always as easy as it should be. 
I see things from both sides - supporting a young person through the challenges of claiming benefits - something he couldn't do on his own and supporting and signposting staff and managers in the workplace.

Ajk110

Welcome @JayPee you are right. It is not always as easy as it should be to get a diagnosis and certainly not to access the right support. There is not always the expert knowledge within occupational health services either.

I wish your grandson well. If looking for work, organisations like Scope, or Royal Mencap may be able to help – my organisation has worked very successfully with Mencap this year to provide 3 short work placements to candidates who were all on the autistic spectrum. Also when searching for opportunities, consider looking at employers who use specialist disability job boards such as Evenbreak (www.evenbreak.co.uk) to find the most inclusive employers.

Best wishes,

Aidan