[holding answer 30 November 2007]: The administration of Jobcentre Plus is a matter for the Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus, Lesley Strathie. I have asked her to provide the hon. Member with the information requested.
Letter from Lesley Strathie, dated 10 December 2007:
The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your question asking what guidance has been provided to Jobcentre Plus employees on working with local authorities to meet the needs of adults with autism spectrum disorder. This is something which falls within the responsibilities delegated to me as Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus.
There is no specific guidance provided to Jobcentre Plus employees on working with local authorities to meet the needs of those with autism spectrum disorder.
However, Jobcentre Plus has a Service Level Agreement with local authorities setting out the joint activities Jobcentre Plus and local authorities undertake for their shared customers. This ensures both organisations continue to work together effectively and deliver a quality service to customers.
Furthermore, any customers who need extra support because of their disability, including those with Autistic Spectrum Disorder, can get help from a Jobcentre Plus Disability Employment Adviser. The Disability Employment Adviser will tell them about specialised programmes available for disabled people and any suitable job vacancies. There are no Jobcentre Plus programmes specifically targeted at people with autism spectrum. All of these programmes work with customers across the full range of disabilities and health conditions, including those with autism spectrum disorder.
Disability Employment Adviser training includes periods of consolidation after training where they research into local organisations and provision for the benefit of customers. This develops effective working relationships with partners and would include local employers, the local authority, voluntary organisations and social services.
I hope this is helpful.