Whilst still offering businesses the traditional methods of charitable engagement - such as Charity of the Year nominations and corporate volunteering days - NEAS has introduced a much wider offering of opportunities, designed to benefit both parties in the relationship. 

One such opportunity, the Employment Futures programme, provides specialised training and coaching for employers, in order to remove barriers to meaningful employment for autistic and neurodivergent adults. Through this programme, NEAS can help partners recruit, retain and develop neurodiverse talent to help businesses succeed.

The Northern Echo: North East Autism Society North East Autism Society (Image: NEAS)

Another key inclusion in the offering is the Autism Acceptance Award, which offers organisations the chance to work towards an accreditation in recognition of their commitment to making a real difference for autistic and neurodivergent individuals. Across three phases – bronze, silver and gold – organisations can work alongside NEAS to learn about and develop real-life, practical applications to improve the experiences of neurodiverse colleagues and customers.

The Northern Echo: NEAS PatronsNEAS Patrons

North East businesses including Empire Theatre in Sunderland, Eldon Square and Life Science Centre in Newcastle have recently completed the Gold award, after implementing real change within their organisation. Some of the adjustments made include: introducing a quiet hour, producing a visual story and creating sensory backpacks for autistic customers. Businesses who are interested in taking part in the award scheme should visit www.ne-as.org.uk/autism-acceptance-award.

Some of the other ways that businesses can get involved include:

  • Fundraising opportunities: office fundraising, payroll giving, gifts in kind
  • Volunteering
  • Events: providing support at NEAS events, taking part in challenges, event sponsorship
  • Corporate membership

To find out more about how you can support the work of the North East Autism Society, and how this could benefit your business, please visit www.ne-as.org.uk/corporate-partnerships, email business@ne-as.org.uk or contact the Society’s fundraising team on 0191 312 1112.