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Is there any support to get autistics into voluntary work?

Bloodheart

I'm long-term unemployed (5+ years, currently on ESA), prior to unemployment I was great at my job and working 40-60 hours per week, but now I've regressed so badly that I don't see myself getting back into work without support - my autism has become FAR worse as a result of unemployment, I can't even search for work without panicking and slipping into a few days of depression and functioning problems. 

I really can't express how much I've changed as a result of unemployment, or how much I'd improve if I was only able to get back into work...Cry

Obviously I am BORED OUT OF MY MIND so really want to get some sort of volunteer work so I can do something constructive, and of course it would help me get back into paid work and recover from this regression I'm currently experiencing with my autism. However whenever I try to apply for a volunteer job I never hear back from anyone, I must be doing something wrong but I just don't know what. 

I would love some sort of support to help me set-up a voluntary job and maybe some sort of support for the first few days on a new volunteer job so I can more easily fit into work...I know once in the swing of things I'll improve a LOT and be a great worker for someone, but until I adjust I worry that I'll freak-out or they'll reject me.

Does such support even exist? 

  • My job centre hasn't given me any support full-stop -they SHOULD help all unemployed people, shame for this country that they don't. 

    Currently I'm on ESA, largely as I couldn't cope with how I was treat by job centre staff while claming JSA. On multiple occasions I've been told not to look for voluntary work as I was going to be put on schemes like New Deal or Work Program so I'd not have the time, or I've been stopped from doing constructive things like attending college because they refused to change sign-on days or times to allow me to attend. They're no help.

    If it makes any difference to anyone reading this - I'm in Newcastle. 

  • doing something that is good for your state of mind and keeps you in society via socialisation,, so that part of your brain stays functioning without relapse... or sing out loud brings your physical being out to work in lieu of isolation

  • You should be able to get support via the Job Center, however, how good that support is will be entirely dependant on (a) the staff at the Job Center, and (b) what organisations there are in your area set up to do this type of thing.