Autism Works MD Peter Macdonald (back left) with software tester Chris Neville Smith.

Staffed almost entirely by analysts who have Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome, social enterprise ‘Autism Works’ is turning positive traits of the condition into unique skills.

The Newcastle-based company is the first in England to take such steps in employing people with Autism, of which 85% are currently unemployed in the UK.

Offering software and website testing services to clients across the region, Autism Works recognised that some of the characteristics of the condition can make people with Autism exceptionally talented software testers.

“People on the Autism spectrum can make brilliant employees; diligent, loyal, precise and very often highly-intelligent”, managing director Peter Macdonald said.

“What is more, their attention to detail, methodical approach to tasks and frequent enjoyment of repetitive processes can make them exceptional software testers.”

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