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I am slightly on the autistic spectrum. Is there anything that can be done to give me a little bit of extra support?

I am a little bit autistic and I can find it more challenging with complex practical tasks, is it not worth bothering with application or is there still a chance I can do okay in an Army apprenticeship? I am not stupid I have 3 A - Levels but practical tasks can take me a little longer to learn.

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  • 3 replies
  • 34 views
  • Author: Anonymous
  • Category: Eligibility advice, Medical
  • Date asked:
  • Last update:
  • JW
    Jordon W. Combat Medical Technician

    This would probably depend on the specific job role you are after. For instance time sensitive stuff may not be good but it is something that can still be worked with and managed.

    If you pass the medical in Basic training you will all be screened by the education centre to identify any extra needs that you may have. If diagnosed then you may be entitled to extra time on exams etc.

    Although i'm not officially diagnosed with anything i still struggle with certain tasks particularly reading but work closely with the education centre to help improve my skills and am looking at going to university in the next few years. I am also entitled to extra time on my assessments as a result. The same will also apply to practical elements. My job role as a medic for instance extra time cannot be allocated on practical scenarios as they are classed as time sensitive role.

  • Anonymous

    A good question I wonder myself being on the spectrum. Does the Army recognise the benefits of neurodiversity in regards to skill sets such as attention to detail, creative thinking and problem solving? A trait of my Autism is that I am hyper aware of my surroundings and spot things which others missed. Something which comes in handy when carrying out family DIY tasks.

  • JW
    Jordon W. Combat Medical Technician

    Yes this could be a very handy skill to have, attention to detail is one thing that the Army is big on and having a creative mind can be applied to any job. As i said, although this may play as an advantage as opposed to a disadvantage, it is still only the medical team that can make the final decision as to whether you are a suitable candidate or not. It could also be important for the careers office to know as if you are creative and enjoy DIY and building things then potentially look into engineering roles providing you still meet the other requirements.

    The Army is definitely a very diverse place and are fully supportive of all religions, races, those with extra educational needs or requirements and more, full support is given to allow you to achieve what you need to.