World Autism Day: What You Can Do To Become A More Inclusive Business
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding autism
- What autistic people are telling us about the world around us
- Tips on how to make our businesses more inclusive for autistic people
- Becoming accredited as an autism-friendly business and employer with AsIAm Charity
On World Autism Day, it’s an important moment for businesses to reflect on how inclusive their spaces, services, and communications really are – and what more can be done to ensure everyone has the same chance to participate fully in everyday life.
At Sustainable Business Network, we wanted to take the opportunity to highlight ways in which your business can become a more inclusive one. In Ireland, 1 in 27 people has an autism diagnosis. That means autistic customers, colleagues, and community members are already engaging with your business – whether or not your business is ready for them.
Understanding Autism
Autistic people experience the world differently. It’s a unique perspective that we can embrace allowing us to create kinder spaces for everyone to thrive. So understanding autism is key to this. Autistic people may have:
- Different ways of communicating
- Different ways of thinking
- Different experiences of the world around them
Recognising and respecting these differences is the foundation of inclusion.
What Autistic People Are Telling Us
The Same Chance Report 2024 highlights that there is still significant work to do:
- 47% of autistic people did not feel that businesses in their community were accessible to autistic people
- 83% of respondents felt they had to change who they are in order to have the same chance to participate in day-to-day activities in society
These figures are a clear call to action for businesses of all sizes.
So, What Can Businesses Do To Become More Autism-Friendly?
The good news is that small, thoughtful actions can have a powerful impact. Inclusion doesn’t have to be complicated – but it does need to be intentional.
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Words Have Power
Language matters. Using respectful and preferred terminology is a simple but meaningful step. Many autistic people prefer identity-first language, such as “Autistic person”, rather than person-first alternatives. Listening to lived experience helps build trust and respect.
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Reduce Sensory Overload
Autistic people can experience sensory overwhelm from sounds, lighting, smells, tastes, and busy environments.
Simple actions include:
- Creating a calm or quiet space in your office or venue
- Reducing unnecessary noise or harsh lighting where possible
- Being mindful of strong scents or crowded layouts
These changes benefit many people – not just autistic individuals.
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Create A Sensory Map And Support Kit
A sensory map helps visitors understand what to expect before they arrive. A support kit might include items such as ear defenders, fidget tools, or clear signage. Planning ahead can significantly reduce anxiety and make experiences more accessible.
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Make Communication Clear And Visual
Clear communication is key. Consider:
- Written instructions instead of verbal-only directions
- Visual schedules or step-by-step guides
- Clear signage and simple language
This helps autistic people understand expectations and navigate spaces more confidently. Our member, the Guinness Storehouse is a great example of what you can do in your business to create a more autism-friendly experience. On their website, they give clear instructions prior to a visit and they also offer Sensory Friendly Hours.
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Provide Checklists Before Attending
Many autistic and neurodivergent people need time to prepare and plan. Providing a checklist before events, meetings, or visits – outlining what will happen, what to bring, and what to expect – can make a huge difference.
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Think Beyond Your Business
Why not be part of creating an autism-friendly town or community, like initiatives already underway in Killarney and Dublin? By becoming an Autism-Friendly Champion, your business can contribute to wider, lasting impact beyond your own doors.
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Become AsIAm Accredited
AsIAm is Ireland’s Autism Charity dedicated to removing the invisible barriers often faced by Autistic people and families, so that every Autistic person can enjoy the same chance in society. Our vision is for Ireland to be a country where every Autistic person is accepted as they are. Our purpose is to create an inclusive society for Autistic people that is accessible, accepting and affirming.
AsIAm supports businesses through:
- Employee training
- Sensory audits
- Development of preparation and promotional materials
- Creation and implementation of a Charter of Inclusion
AsIAm Accreditation helps embed inclusion into your business in a meaningful, supported way.
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Become An Autism-Friendly Employer
AsIAm’s Same Chance Toolkit provides practical guidance for employers to create inclusive, supportive workplaces where autistic employees can thrive without masking or changing who they are.
Inclusion Benefits Everyone
An inclusive business is not just good for autistic people – it creates calmer spaces, clearer communication, and more welcoming experiences for everyone. This World Autism Day, take one step – however small – towards becoming a more inclusive business. Because everyone deserves the same chance.
