Employing young people with disabilities

The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) gives rights to people who have disabilities. People do not have to be registered as disabled to be covered by the act. The Disability Act defines a person as having a disability if they have:

‘a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.’

Employers must make reasonable adjustments in workplaces to make sure young people with disabilities can gain employment. These could include altering premises, changing working hours and buying specific equipment.

Jobcentre Plus can give you advice on recruiting and training disabled people and their career development. For more details about the Job Introduction Scheme Scheme visit - External link: http://www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk/JCP/Employers/advisoryservices/diversity/dev_015794.xml.html

Mencap has produced a useful guide, Making it Work for Employers. This gives detailed information and guidance to employers who are providing job opportunities to people with learning disabilities. For more information visit - External link: www.mencap.org.uk
You can also find more information on employing young people with disabilities at:

* National Bureau for Students with Disabilities – External link: www.skill.org.uk
* Direct Gov – Public Services – External link: www.Disability.gov.uk