Understanding the rights of adults on the autism spectrum is an important factor in making sure equality is upheld across the employment sector.

The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) is a key a key piece of legislation put in place to safeguard against discrimination in employment. It places a Disability Equality Duty (DED) on public authorities to promote equality for disabled people. The autism strategy makes it clear that this duty applies to adults on the autism spectrum.

From 1 October 2010, the Equality Act replaced most of the DDA. However, the DED continues to apply.