My name is Josh and I have Asperger's Syndrome. Asperger's Syndrome is an Autistic Spectrum Disorder and can affect learning and communication with others. I joined Jobsteps as they are specialists in supporting individuals on the Autistic Spectrum and they have supported me into paid employment.
 
I was recommended to speak with Jobsteps by my job centre DEA and a meeting was subsequently arranged where an Employment Advisor met me at my local job centre and discussed the support they can provide. I decided to enrol on the programme and my Employment Advisor met with my parents also to explain the process and complete the necessary paperwork.
 
Although my parents were keen on me finding work I was not sure on the idea myself as I had had previous work experience placements that I didn't really enjoy. My Employment Advisor invited me into their centre and discussed the benefits of working, but I was still resistant to the idea and was not fully committed to undertaking the job seeking objectives that had been set for me. I started to attend a job club, where my Advisor had also arranged for another Workstep customer to attend and we started looking at jobs and discussing how getting a job can change your life for the better.
 
Although I was applying for jobs I was not too sure about the type of work I would enjoy. Therefore, my Employment Advisor asked if I would consider doing some voluntary work so I could gain practical experience and find a job role that I would enjoy. I agreed and my Advisor set up a placement for me and another Workstep customer at my local DIY store. My Advisor set up an interview with the Store Manager, prepared me for the interview, attended the interview and I started a voluntary work placement not long after.
 
I find that being given clear instructions and having a set work routine helps me at work and my Employment Advisor ensured that my Manager was aware of what Asperger Syndrome is and what support needs I had, which I found really useful.
 
Jobsteps arranged regular reviews with both me and my employer to provide advice and to try and progress the placement further. Additionally, I was working alongside another Workstep customer so we could help each other. After a couple of months, my voluntary placement was extended to a further couple of months and thereafter I was offered a paid temporary contract. My employer was so pleased with the work I had done and the positive feedback was nice to hear and boosted my confidence.
 
After my last review I have now been offered a permanent contract with B & Q and I am extremely pleased.
 
I have found B & Q to be an excellent employer. They have a good team, the supervisors are supportive and it has helped so much that they have taken the time to understand about Asperger's Syndrome and my support needs .