Written by the Enlightened Minds team — clear, stigma-free guidance for Scottish families, pupils, and employers.
Autism in Scotland: A Practical ASN Guide for Schools & Workplaces
In Scotland, many autistic children and adults are recognised as having Additional Support Needs (ASN).
Support is guided by the Additional Support for Learning (Scotland) Act 2004 and the national approach
GIRFEC (Getting it right for every child). The goal isn’t to make someone “fit” a system — it’s to adapt
school, work and home so people can thrive. Below you’ll find the essentials, quick actions and real-world adjustments that work.
At work, discuss reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010 and agree them in writing.
School in Scotland: where to start
- Request an ASN discussion in writing with the class teacher or ASN/ASL coordinator (copy the head teacher). Bring examples of strengths, needs and what helps.
- Ask about the Child’s Plan and who is contributing (e.g., Educational Psychologist, OT, SALT). If multiple agencies are involved, ask whether a CSP is appropriate.
- Use independent advice: Enquire (ASN helpline) explains your rights and practical next steps.
Classroom adjustments that make a difference
| Need | Reasonable adjustment | Real-world example | Evidence to keep |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensory (noise/light) | Alternative seating; low-stim space; noise-reduction | Front-left seat away from door; permission for ear defenders during group tasks | Notes from teacher; parent diary of better days; EP/OT advice |
| Processing time | Extra time; instructions in writing; chunked tasks | Visual steps on desk; “check-back” after 2–3 minutes | Samples of improved work; teacher observation sheets |
| Transitions/change | Advance notice; visual timetables; safe exit | 5-minute pre-warning for class change; “calm corner” pass | Behaviour logs showing fewer escalations |
| Communication | Plain language; visuals; predictable routines | “First–Then” cards; model answers on board | SALT input; samples of independent work |
| Regulation/burnout | Movement or quiet breaks; safe person/space | Two 5-min sensory breaks AM/PM; gym band at desk | Attendance trend; incident reduction over 4–6 weeks |
Helpful links:
Enquire (ASN advice service) ·
GIRFEC ·
NHS Inform — Autism ·
Reach (pupil rights)
Work in Scotland: getting adjustments right
Autistic adults are protected under the Equality Act 2010. Employers must consider
reasonable adjustments — practical changes that remove barriers. Agree them in writing and review after a few weeks.
Workplace adjustments you can implement this month
| Challenge | Adjustment | Practical example |
|---|---|---|
| Open-plan noise & lighting | Quiet zone/desk; task lighting; headphone policy | Allocated desk away from printer; permission for noise-reducing headphones |
| Meeting overload | Agenda in advance; written follow-ups; shorter, focused meets | 24h agenda; 30-min cap; action list in email after |
| Processing & switching tasks | Clear briefs; fewer concurrent tasks; protected focus blocks | Two 90-min focus windows daily; Kanban board, one owner per task |
| Social demands | Optional socials; buddy/mentor; alternative interview formats | Skip drinks OK; skills-test interview instead of panel where suitable |
| Change & uncertainty | Advance notice; change logs; phased rollouts | New software: sandbox access 1–2 weeks early, step-by-step guides |
Helpful links:
Acas — disability & work ·
PAS 6463 (Design for the Mind) ·
Scottish Autism
Do something helpful today
- Try our free, privacy-first Interactive Therapy Studio for a range of exciting free assets.
- Keep a simple evidence log (dates, settings, what helped). It speeds ASN planning and reasonable adjustments.
- If you’re stuck, speak with an adviser at Enquire.