Employers met people with autism during an event to help them find jobs.

MP Justine Greening chaired the event which took place in Eastwood Children's Centre, Roehampton Lane, and was organised by The National Autistic Society (NAS).

Research by NAS has found 15 per cent of adults with autism are in full time employment, while 79 per cent are claiming out work benefits and want to work.

There are 26 per cent of graduates who are unemployed, which is the highest rate of any disability group.

The free event helped visitors overcome barriers they often face in the workplace, such as making job interviews more accessible and teaching the unwritten rules of the workplace.

Ms Greening said: "People in my constituency tell me that they experience difficulties in finding and staying in employment, often due to inadequate support and misunderstandings related to their condition.

"This event seeks to show local employers what people with autism have to offer.

"In these challenging economic times, we cannot afford to let the skills and talents of people with autism go to waste."

Tony Arthur, of Putney, who has autism, spoke to guests about his own experiences of employment and raised the issue with Justine Greening.

He said: "It’s time to show just how well people with autism can work when they are given the right opportunities and support.

"People with autism have so much to offer and we want to be able to contribute to the society we are part of. All we need is the chance to do so."