NAS TMI adult video - request for withdrawl

Hi All

The NAS have issued a video which they say is designed to highlight the problems autistic people face in job interviews. Its is here;


http://www.autism.org.uk/get-involved/TMI/employment.aspx?utm_source=TMI_Email1Aut&utm_campaign=TMICampaign2016&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Film&dm_i=YA3,4KLPI,A3PEXP,GYT18,1

I have asked several neurotypical people and autistic people for their view on it. They all say it seems to be designed to elicit pity and its message is confusing and not helpful in any way. I felt the same. I would much rather the NAS put out a video with autistic people talking about the problems they face and suggesting constructive ways for employers to make interviews better for autistic people.

There is no mention either in the video of why anyone would want to employ an autistic person, no mention that we work hard, are honest, often have unusual and useful abilties and may be great at problem solving. Instead someone knowing little or nothing about autism would watch this video and think we are emotional wrecks with strange ideas about the world.

NAS please withdraw this video now.

  • Although I'm in the category of unable to work, I can see how such video could 'backfire'. Having been called freak throughout my childhood, I suspect pity would be the least offensive response to seeing some autism traits without proper explanation. There are a lot worse responses that come to mind.

  • I would agree. I think the NAS have gone for shock value rather than providing real and accurate information on our experiences of the working world.

    This video will not help any of us get work and could even have a negative effect. I would not want my employers to see this. Saying you're autistic when applying for a job is a gamble, this video has not improved the odds one bit.

  • Hi Electra,

    Its very much like the Tmi with the child at the shopping centre.  

    As usual its others interpreting what it's like on the spectrum assuming that ALL Autistic people have sensory problems.   I do but this never stopped me getting work.  

    There is this idea that all Asd people react the same way in certain situations.  

    Would be better to explain that some of us may feel overwhelmed by work politics.  

    The don't follow policy & procedure/ minimal effort attitude.  

    The bullying that goes on in some work places.  Because some of us are comfortable speaking the truth.  Will never bother to lie to be tactful.

    Needing not to be overwhelmed by the work load or (better off doing less hours) so as to balance other aspects in our lives.

    So perhaps as you rightly suggest.  Talk to those who have got through interviews &  have or do work.  Who are actually on the Spectrum.  

    Star