❝These insights have been instrumental in guiding our efforts to enhance the quality and effectiveness of the support we provide❞
- Sharon Eakins, Service Manager
Community Integrated Care provides specialist Supported Employment services for people with learning disabilities, mental health concerns and autism to access employment and vocational training. Their partnerships span various well-known establishments, including Costa Coffee, Tesco, Everton in the Community, local parks and gardens, various cafés and Wetherspoons. They are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all the people they support.
Why did you register for the Autism Specialist Award?
We take great pride in our longstanding commitment to excellence, having been accredited for the past 17 years. This ongoing process reflects our dedication to maintaining the highest standards in our services and continuously improving to better help those we support. It was an exceptionally positive and informative experience.
How did the programme support you with reflecting and developing your service?
We have introduced clear and inspiring goals for both our team and the individuals we support. These objectives are designed to enhance their skills and capabilities in the workplace, providing a structured path for personal and professional development.
By working towards these goals, everyone involved is motivated to achieve their best, fostering a sense of accomplishment and growth.
What areas of practice did you develop and what impact has this had on autistic people and their families?
We have identified additional risks for the individuals we support, which has significantly enhanced our ability to ensure their safety and manageability in the workplace. This proactive approach has made their work environments safer and more secure.
Additionally, we are proud to celebrate the remarkable dedication of one of our supported individuals, who has worked in the same factory for the past 20 years. His unwavering commitment to his paid employment has been recognised and applauded by our company, highlighting the positive impact of our support services.

How has gaining the award benefited your service?
As a standalone service, receiving accreditation brings us well-deserved recognition and visibility within our company. This acknowledgement not only highlights our dedication and hard work but also opens doors for potential positive impacts on our service.
We are proud to serve as a beacon of excellence within our company and are more than happy to guide others in their journey towards achieving accreditation.
Autism Specialist Award
This award is tailored to specialist providers in the education, social care and prison fields.