Employment and FASD

Employment is an important part of adult life, providing a sense of purpose and meaning, as well as financial stability and a sense of belonging. For individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), meaningful employment can contribute to improved well-being, self-esteem, and quality of life.

Successful employment happens when an individual’s strengths, skills, and support needs are matched with the right workplace environment. People with FASD bring valuable skills and perspectives to the workplace. With appropriate workplace accommodations and supports from employers, service providers, family, and communities, many adults with FASD can successfully achieve their employment goals and build fulfilling careers.

Want to learn more about supporting people with FASD in their employment and careers? Check out our online learning course FASD for Community and Social Service Professionals!

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Employment Resources for Adults with FASD

Explore guides and tools designed to help you navigate the workplace, understand your rights, and build the skills you need to succeed in your job.

FASD in the Workplace: A Workplace Resource
This booklet supports people with FASD in the workplace. It helps individuals identify their strengths, explore workplace supports, and find ways to communicate their needs and experiences. It also includes pages that can be shared with employers to support conversations about strengths and workplace supports. Available in two formats:

If you have any feedback on this resource, email us at info@canfasd.ca.

Resources to Support Employees with FASD

Explore evidence-based guides, reports, and tools designed to help adults with FASD, employment professionals, employers, and support networks navigate employment success for individuals with FASD.

Guide for Employment Professionals: Supporting Employment in Adults with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
This guide helps employment professionals support clients with FASD in preparing for, obtaining, and maintaining employment. It includes evidence-based tips, strategies and suggestions that are informed by living experience.

An Enhanced Employment Guide for Employment Professionals (2019)
Published in 2019, this document is the product of a large project to better understand and support employment needs and success amongst people with FASD. It is a helpful tool for anyone seeking detailed information on FASD and workplace support.

FASD & Employment Report (April 2016)
This report identifies employment programs and model frameworks that support adults with FASD in the workforce. It gives practical examples of approaches that improve job success and workplace inclusion.

FASD and Employment Issue Papers

Research on FASD and employment continues to grow, providing valuable insights into workplace challenges, supports, and strategies that contribute to successful employment outcomes. Below you can find issue papers that summarize research and key information,

Employment and FASD: Strategies for Success
There is limited research on FASD and employment, but many studies have identified challenges in finding and maintaining meaningful employment. At the same time, employment can contribute to positive identity and can be a protective factor. A supportive employment model, as outlined in this paper, may be the solution.