Data helps deepen understanding, support decision-making, and shape meaningful change. The Insights shared here draw on a range of sources, including internal and community surveys, evaluation activities, research articles, administrative and program data, and lived experience perspectives.

By sharing what we are learning, we aim to contribute to evidence-informed practices, policies, and systems that support better outcomes for Autistic people and their communities.

We strive to share information that is accurate and current at the time of publication.

Read How We Develop Our Insights. 

Latest Insights

Employment · Deeper dive

Work in Progress

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Drawing on 2012, 2017, and 2022 data from the Canadian Survey on Disability, this overview highlights how employment and labour force participation have changed for Autistic youth and adults in Canada.

Employment rate

Autistic youth and adults (age 15+) participating in the Canadian Survey on Disability reported increased levels of employment from 2012–2022.

Employment over time

  • 29% 2022
  • 22% 2017
  • 14% 2012

Scale: 0–100%. Each ring represents a separate value.

Labour force participation

More Autistic adults are seeking work, but 60% are still not active in the labour force.

Participation over time

  • 32% 2017
  • 40% 2022

Scale: 0–50%

Employment by region

Employment by region
Region20172022Change (%)
BC 35% 33% Decrease: 2
Alberta 38% 32% Decrease: 6
Prairies 35% 39% Increase: 4
Ontario 23% 29% Increase: 6
Quebec 23% 26% Increase: 3
Atlantic Canada 26% 28% Increase: 2
North 40% 29% Decrease: 11

Employment and labour force participation have improved for Autistic Canadians overall, but progress is uneven. From 2017 to 2022, employment increased in the Prairies, Ontario, Quebec, and Atlantic Canada, while it declined in BC, Alberta, and the North.

With 60% still outside the labour force, the data points to continued barriers to participation and the need for more inclusive employment pathways.

Sources: Canadian Survey on Disability. Data prepared by The School of Public Policy. Employment chart: 2012, 2017 and 2022. Participation and regional comparison: 2017 and 2022.

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Employment · Data drop

Workplaces That Work

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More than 40% of workers with developmental disabilities report needing workplace accommodations.1

The top 3 supports needed in 2022, according to the Canadian Survey on Disability:2

  • 54% Detailed duties outlined
  • 54% Flexible working hours
  • 49% Human/job coach support

Scale: 0–100%

81%

of almost 500 EmploymentWorks participants reported accommodations improved their ability to perform their job.

Source: Sinneave Internal Data

Intentional, low-cost accommodations can help create a more inclusive workplace.

Employers, check out the Solutions Hub or book a time to meet with our NEUROinclusive Workforce Solutions team.

Sources: 1. Berrigan et al., Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2020. 2. Canadian Survey on Disability, 2022.

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