I think I posted my /successful/ diagnosis on here a few weeks ago. Subsequent to that I received a copy letter to my GP and a letter I could give to my employer r.e. adjustments etc. This triggered a full and frank exchange of views, which finally resolved to the offer that if I wrote the employer letter, he would look at it and sign it. A result I think. I intentionally kept it short - one page, quick to read. Made it relatively bland with only the necessary information as it’ll be on my file. I also mentioned some of the benefits of autism in the workforce. (The original letter sent out to everyone he diagnosed basically said ‘don’t employ this person they will make life hard.’

As this is a potentially powerful tool (should I choose to deploy it) I’d appreciate any builds / suggestions before sending it off to be signed.

To Whom it may concern,

Re.: <Insert Name Here> Autism Diagnosis

I would like to kindly inform you that further to a formal psychiatric evaluation I have performed on <Insert Name Here> on <insert date here>, <Insert Name Here> was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The diagnosis has been established using the DSM-5 criteria and included pre-assessment questionnaires as well as a clinical assessment lasting one hour, consisting of history taking and mental state examination.

Autism is a lifelong condition which can affect an individual in a variety of ways and cause some difficulties in daily life, particularly with communication and social interaction. Autistic people can have many significant strengths not limited to enhanced creativity, problem solving and analytical skills, systematizing, focus and lateral thinking. These strengths can provide great benefits to an employer who is willing to make suitable accommodations to the autistic person’s needs.

What accommodations are you likely to need to make? Every autistic person is different, and their needs can be context and task specific. For example, environmental factors, such as lighting and noise can have a greater effect on an autistic person than on someone who is neurotypical. As noted above, their communication style may be different to what you would expect. The best way to find out what accommodations should be made is to have an open discussion with the individual. Often only minor changes are needed.

Autism carries protection under the equality act 2010 and a diagnosis is classed as ‘special category data’ under GDPR it is therefore subject to a higher level of protection. The autistic person may not want their diagnosis shared widely within your organisation, alternatively they may want to be fully open with it. Please discuss this with them.

More information can be found on the National Autistic Society website: www.autism.org.uk

Kindest regards, etc.