Problem addressed

RO(O)TATION addresses the growing challenge of long-term unemployment, particularly among neurodivergent individuals and people on the autism spectrum, who often face multiple barriers to labour market participation. The project responds to limited access to tailored support, low financial literacy, mental health challenges, employer stereotypes and insufficient cooperation between key stakeholders by developing innovative, community-based and person-centred employment solutions.

Innovative solution

RO(O)TATION combines psychotherapy, financial education, career coaching and subsidised employment into one integrated support pathway for long-term unemployed people. By engaging employers, public institutions, academia and civil society through the Quadruple Helix model, it creates inclusive employment communities and promotes sustainable labour market integration for neurodivergent individuals.

Key results and benefits

RO(O)TATION supports 120 long-term unemployed people (including 40 neurodivergent participants) through integrated employment pathways. Key outputs include 24 Diversity Celebration events, 24 Rooted Rooftop employment community meetings, financial education tools, mental wellbeing materials, reports on neuro-friendly workplaces and a sustainable local employment network connecting employers, public institutions and NGOs. The project enhances participants’ employability, mental wellbeing and financial skills, while fostering inclusive workplaces, stronger local partnerships and greater awareness of neurodiversity among employers and communities.

Potential for mainstreaming

The RO(O)TATION model has strong potential for replication and mainstreaming across Europe. Its integrated approach—combining mental health support, financial education, career coaching, employer engagement and subsidised employment—can be adapted by public employment services, NGOs and local authorities. The project’s practical tools, guidelines, reports and community-based employment networks provide a scalable framework for promoting inclusive labour markets and supporting long-term unemployed and neurodivergent people in different regional contexts.