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can boost career growth. Mentorship and coaching consistently emerge as the top facilitator:

autistic employees in qualitative studies say that having a regular mentor or "job coach" makes
a difference in how successful they will be at work (Davies et al., 2024).
By contrast, virtually no studies focus on autistic employees’ exit or offboarding.

8. Summary

This module provides a comprehensive introduction to integrating social responsibility and

inclusive employment in the European hospitality sector, specifically focusing on autism. It
explores the growing relevance of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and the strategic role

businesses play in fostering inclusive work environments and contributing to broader social
goals. The module begins by contextualising autism within the global and European landscape,

highlighting its prevalence, diagnostic challenges, and the underrepresentation of autistic
individuals in the labour market—particularly in high-contact sectors like hospitality. It

underlines the mismatch between the talents of autistic individuals and the rigid structures of
traditional workplaces, reinforcing the need for inclusive hiring practices and adapted work

environments. The concept of CSR is then thoroughly examined, drawing on key frameworks
such as ISO 26000, the UN Global Compact, the OECD Guidelines, and the Sustainable

Development Goals (SDGs). The module explains how CSR has evolved into a strategic
business asset that supports innovation, risk management, and long-term resilience, especially

for SMEs operating in tourism and hospitality.
Through real-world examples, learners gain insight into CSR applications across Europe,

including general sustainability efforts and specific autism-inclusive initiatives (e.g., Gloria
Thalasso & Hotels in Spain, Ashling Hotel Dublin, and PizzAut in Italy). These cases illustrate

how inclusive employment not only supports the rights of people with autism but also
enhances brand reputation, staff morale, customer experience, and overall service quality.

The module concludes by outlining actionable steps for building and implementing CSR
policies. It emphasises stakeholder engagement, alignment with organisational values, and

the use of global reporting standards to track progress. It encourages hospitality businesses—
regardless of size—to see inclusion not as charity but as an investment in human potential

and sustainable growth.

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Project Number 2023-1-IT01-KA220-VET-000152721