Overview
Autistic employees have full legal protection under the Equality Act 2010 — including reasonable adjustments, protection from discrimination, harassment and victimisation.
Key points to understand
- Direct discrimination: treating someone worse because they are autistic.
- Indirect discrimination: a policy that disadvantages autistic people without justification.
- Failure to make reasonable adjustments is a separate ground of claim.
- Tribunal claims must usually be brought within 3 months of the incident — get advice fast.
Practical strategies that help
- Keep a written log of incidents.
- Raise issues formally via HR / grievance procedure.
- Get free advice from Acas (0300 123 1100), Citizens Advice, or a union.
- Consider Early Conciliation before tribunal.
Common challenges to be aware of
- Settlement / NDAs may silence patterns of discrimination — get legal advice before signing.
- Constructive dismissal claims are hard to win — try to resolve via grievance first.
How Bright Steps can help
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References & further reading
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