Never shying from big life topics, this chapter shines a light on how, for people with learning disabilities or autistic people, the joy and independence that comes from thriving in the workplace is often mixed with challenges at every step along the way.

As the animation highlights, only 4.8% of people with a learning disability are in employment*, despite almost 10 times this amount of people we support expressing a wish to be employed when surveyed. Barriers include unconscious bias in the selection process, a lack of flexible working opportunities and misunderstandings about workplace adjustments. As Zack said in the animation, “They are only little changes, but they make all the difference.”

Ashley, a student in Cornwall, said “United Response has helped me feel more independent. I’ve got the confidence to go out there on my own, go to the shop, go wherever I need to go, and do stuff for myself. Basically my confidence has just grown because they’ve supported me all the way through since I’ve been here.”

The project was funded thanks to United Response’s outgoing CEO, Tim Cooper, after he took on the challenge to trek to Petra. Tim’s passion to support people with learning disabilities and autistic people to thrive were front and centre of his leadership of United Response so it is fitting that this animation champions this ambition.

Making the most of every ability

Lots of people supported by United Response have contributed their skills to the hugely intensive animation process.

For example, the local woodwork group at Lower Sharpham farm built the set for the garage and the photography group got involved in painting the set and animating some scenes. John Aggett returns as the voice of Zack, and creative staff were involved in creating new characters.

The project has also been a great talking point for exploring people’s hopes and fears about the workplace:


So what part can you play?

In the same way as a wide variety of people have contributed their unique skills and abilities to this project, you can help us create an inclusive and accessible future for people with learning disabilities.

You might have your own ideas and opportunities, but here’s just a few ways you can help:

  • Please share this animation video on social media, so that more people understand the barriers that people with learning disabilities face in gaining employment
  • If you’re an open-minded employer (or know of one), please visit our employer’s page to find out how your business can be supported to welcome people with learning disabilities into the workplace
  • If this film got your smiling, you could create a career out of it. Search our jobs site for roles across the country supporting people in the workplace.

*Source: Employment Rates for People with Disabilities 2022-23 | British Association for Supported Employment (base-uk.org)