Published on 12, July, 2020
At work I have felt that I have been doing everything well and I thought that there was no issue with the way I have been doing things.
However, today I have been given an 'informal' supportive action plan, thankfully it's not a disciplinary process, but I was taken back by it and feel that my supervisor has no idea how to deal with a person with Autism.
I have a Workplace Needs Assessment meeting in a couple of weeks but they are putting me on this 3 month plan as of next Monday.
I tried to argue it, but this is happening anyway.
I really like my job, I really thought I was doing well, but it appears that I am not.
From the way they are speaking and what they are asking they have no idea about Autism, and I am not sure they are willing to learn about it or try to understand what makes me different.
I have recently moved teams from another area within the same organisation and nothing was flagged up there in the 18 months I worked there and I have not changed how I operate.
I don't want to lose my job.
Can anyone help me?
I'm sorry that you're going through what is obviously such a very worrying time.
In theory, the Workplace Needs Assessment could be a positive thing, as it could help them to better understand your needs and how they can better support you in your role.
Ahead of your meeting, it might help to provide your employer with resources about autism and their legal responsibilities. And to look into other sources of support that might be available to you.
For example, you and/or they might find these resources helpful:
NAS - Employing autistic people – a guide for employers - including the further links and resources at the bottom, including the government's Access to Work scheme.
NAS - Support at work – a guide for autistic people - includes advice about the Equality Act, workplace bullying (which can include overbearing supervision and criticising your performance), and sources of further support.
NHS - Reasonable Adjustments at Work for Autistic People