AutonoMe raises £150k seed investment to enable people with learning disabilities and autism to gain and maintain meaningful employment

Only 4.8% of people with learning disabilities and autism are currently in employment, a decline from 6.6% in the last ten years. We know this isn’t good enough and things need to change. Everyone should have equal access to the benefits of meaningful employment.

By combining human support with assistive technology AutonoMe have developed a support programme that enables people with learning disabilities and autism to realise their full potential. Personalised support from a dedicated Job Coach is enhanced by employment-related instructional videos accessed via the AutonoMe app. As a result:

• Learners develop motivation and resilience for job seeking and are equipped with the practical and social skills required to secure meaningful paid work

• Bespoke training and support is tailored to the personalised needs of the learners and their employer, creating the right conditions for sustained employment

• Learner progress is monitored and regularly communicated with both the learner and employer to ensure any challenges are identified and addressed proactively.

By using AutonoMe employees develop skills and overcome barriers to gain and sustain paid employment whilst employers gain expert support to increase their diversity and inclusivity alongside greater insight into the needs and abilities of their workforce.

The investment from Ufi Ventures will enable AutonoMe to offer support to far more people as well as expand its platform and develop new features making it even more accessible and user-friendly. In addition to the funding, being part of the Ufi Ventures portfolio provides AutonoMe with access to a network of experts and mentors who can help the company to refine and develop its business model.

“The funding and support provided by Ufi Ventures will be instrumental in the continuing development of AutonoMe. Thanks to this investment, we will be able to accelerate our mission to empower people with learning disabilities and autism to find and retain meaningful employment as well as to live more independently.” Will Britton, Founder and CEO, AutonoMe

Commenting on the investment, Alex Bishop, Ufi Ventures Senior Investment Manager said:

“We are delighted to continue supporting AutonoMe, through this investment, having previously provided a grant to the business. AutonoMe’s technology enables people with learning disabilities and autism to live more independently as well as to find and thrive in work. We look forward to assisting the business with their next stage of growth.”