What Is the Equality Act 2010, and How Does It Protect Employees with Autism?
Every employee deserves fairness, dignity, and opportunity at work and for autistic people in the UK; those rights are protected by law. The Equality Act 2010 is the foundation of disability rights at work, ensuring that people with autism are not treated unfairly or excluded because of their condition.
Understanding the Equality Act 2010
The Equality Act 2010 bring together previous anti-discrimination laws into one clear framework. It protects people from unfair treatment based on certain “protected characteristics” including disability, which covers autism.
Under the Act, it’s unlawful for employers to discriminate against someone because they are autistic, whether during recruitment, employment, promotion, or dismissal. It also gives autistic employees the right to make reasonable adjustments: practical changes that help reduce barriers to work.
According to GOV.UK,
“An employer has to make reasonable adjustments to avoid you being put at a disadvantage compared to non-disabled people.”
This means employers must take active steps to ensure that autistic employees have equal access to opportunities and support.
What Are “Reasonable Adjustments”?
Reasonable adjustments are changes that make the workplace fairer and more accessible. According to ACAS, employers are required to adjust “when they know or could reasonably be expected to know someone is disabled.”
Examples include:
- Flexible start times or quiet spaces
- Written rather than verbal instructions
- Predictable routines or advance notice of changes
- Communication or sensory aids
The NHS England guidance emphasises flexibility and collaboration, encouraging employers to work with autistic staff to design adjustments that benefit both the individual and the team.
Additional Workplace Support
Alongside legal protections, autistic employees can apply for Access to Work funding: a government scheme that pays for specialist equipment, job coaching, or travel support.
The National Autistic Society also offer practical advice on disclosure, requesting adjustments, and accessing grants. These resources help employees use their rights with confidence and clarity.
Why This Law Matters
For many autistic people, understanding the Equality Act 2010 is empowering. It ensures that workplaces must be fair, inclusive, and supportive, not only because it’s good practice, but because it’s the law.
If you feel you’re being treated unfairly or denied adjustments, you can seek help from ACAS or Citizens Advice for free, confidential guidance.
