Having a job isn’t just about earning an income – it can help to build confidence, develop skills and widen friendships. However, finding and sustaining employment can be tough for people with learning disabilities.

In 2019-20, the British Association for Supported Employment (BASE) estimated that only 5.6% of people with a learning disability are in paid work, this was a reduction from 5.9% the previous year

We believe that anyone who wants to work should have the opportunity to do so, which is why wherever one of the people we support expresses an interest in getting a job, our supported employment teams will work with them to find a paid or voluntary role that suits them.

We can arrange placements everywhere from hotels and shops, to hospitals and TV studios.

Finding a Job

When someone feels ready to begin work, we begin the process of matching them to a role, taking into account the requirements of both the jobseeker and the employer. We support them to put together a CV, and help them prepare for and attend interviews.

When someone begins in paid employment, we continue to offer support to help them:

• Provide information needed for pre-employment checks
• To take part in and successfully complete induction training
• To learn the routines and tasks of the job
• To work to a high standard and at the speed their employer expects
• With adaptations to the work place, such as putting in place colour coding systems, or using assistive technology to help them in their role
• With communication in the workplace
• To learn new tasks and routines as they change
• To take part in and complete ongoing training, or training to help their development
• To understand their employer’s policies and procedures
• To progress their career
• During an appraisal or supervision with their employer
• To understand processes, such as booking annual leave.
• Supporting the individual in the employment placement

We also provide support for their employer.