Developing a user-informed training package for a mentoring programme for people on the autism spectrum

The National Audit Office’s (2009) report ‘Supporting People with Autism through Adulthood’ highlighted the dearth of services for adults on the autism spectrum, and the negative impact this has on this group. It reported that only 12% of adults on the autism spectrum were in full-time paid employment and that 70% had additional mental health problems.

At the 2007 forum ‘Successful Futures for Adults with Autism’, people on the autism spectrum were asked to share their thoughts on existing models of support and how they would like support to be. The participants highlighted difficulties they experienced with navigating social life. There was a common feeling that existing models of support for adults on the autism spectrum, such as befriending, were not helpful. Many said that they would benefit from time-limited, goal-oriented, specialised mentoring. Participants identified they would benefit from support with managing practical and financial affairs; accessing education/training opportunities; securing and maintaining employment; and maintaining good physical and mental health. As a result of this, the Research Autism Mentoring Project was instigated with the aim of developing a user-informed and evidence-based mentoring service for adults on the autism spectrum.