A BRIDGE BETWEEN UNIQUE INDIVIDUALS AND INCLUSIVE COMPANIES

In Italy, it is estimated that 1 in 77 children aged 7 to 9 is on the autism spectrum, with a higher incidence among boys. There are over 600,000 autistic individuals in the country*, and although job placement remains challenging, it is essential to create concrete opportunities to enhance their skills and improve their quality of life.

Because autism often involves communication and relational difficulties, sensory sensitivities, and repetitive behaviors, entering the workforce requires a suitable environment and trained company staff.

To meet this need, the project “The Bridge” was created in collaboration with Associazione L’Ortica and Fondazione Oltre il Blu, with the goal of training company professionals who are relationship-oriented and capable of becoming facilitators of inclusion.

Their role will be to:

> Prepare the workplace to be welcoming and functional

> Support and guide the onboarding of autistic employees, highlighting their strengths

> Foster social interaction with colleagues and teams, encouraging dialogue and mutual understanding

> Promote inclusive strategies to ensure a positive and lasting presence in the company

24 HOURS OF TRAINING
8 MODULES

MODULE 1 – ONLINE
Introduction to Autism

• Characteristics of autism: clinical aspects
• Causes of autism: genetic and epigenetic factors, environmental influences, and common myths
• Autism and society: perceptions, stereotypes, and cultural impact
• Ableism: what it is, how it manifests, and its implications for autistic individuals
• From diagnosis to inclusion: key approaches and support strategies
  Speaker – Psychologist

MODULE 2 – ONLINE
Disability and Autism Legislation

• Legal framework: key Italian and European laws on disability
• Employment rights for autistic individuals: protection tools and incentives for companies
• Accessibility and reasonable accommodation: what the law says and how to apply it at work
• Work integration paths: opportunities and best practices
  Speaker – Disability law expert

MODULE 3 – IN PERSON
Social Skills and Communication

• Autistic and neurotypical communication: differences and meeting points
• Social dynamics in the workplace: challenges, strategies, and practical tools
• Communication support tools: AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication), visual schedules, and assistive technologies
• Practical exercises: simulations and role-playing to encourage workplace interaction
  Speaker – Professional educator and disability support specialist

MODULE 4 – IN PERSON
Sensory Processing and Environmental Adaptation

• Sensory profiles in autistic individuals: hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity
• Impact of environmental factors on workplace well-being
• Inclusive environment adaptations: lighting, sounds, shared spaces, and tools
• Practical exercises: use of experiential materials (Ascolta i miei passi and Forte e chiaro) to understand the sensory experience
  Speaker – Professional educator and disability support specialist

MODULE 5 – IN PERSON
Autistic Talents and Skills Enhancement

• Strengths of autistic individuals: systems thinking, attention to detail, analytical skills
• Suitable job roles for different profiles: matching skills with tasks
• How to enhance talent in the workplace: strategies for recognition and growth
• From recruitment to onboarding: tools for support and monitoring
  Speaker – Professional educator and disability support specialist

MODULE 6 – IN PERSON
Behavioral Complexity in Autism: Management Strategies

• Understanding behavior: the link between environment, communication, and behavioral responses
• Strategies for managing difficulties: individualized support, mediation techniques, and self-regulation approaches
• Preventing and managing crises: identifying triggers and creating a safe environment
• The facilitator’s role: how to intervene effectively without replacing the autistic person
  Speaker – Professional educator and disability support specialist

MODULE 7 – ONLINE
Workplace Integration: Preparing the Environment and Inclusion Strategies

• Adapting the work environment: practical guidelines for accessibility and comfort
• The role of coworkers: raising awareness within the team and promoting an inclusive workplace
• Facilitating socialization: tools and strategies to support group integration
• Supporting autistic employees over time: monitoring, mentoring, and professional development
  Speaker – Psychologist

MODULE 8 – ONLINE
Testimonials, Company Experiences, and Best Practices

• Success stories: companies that have implemented effective inclusion models
• From theory to practice: firsthand experiences of autistic individuals in the workplace
• Challenges and opportunities: how to address difficulties and build a sustainable path
• Q&A with professionals and companies: open dialogue with experts and inclusive business leaders
  Speakers – Professionals and company representatives experienced in workplace inclusion