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Employing people with a learning disability
According to Mencap, only 6% of people with a learning disability known to local authorities and who are of working age are in paid employment.
Despite the fact that 65% of people with learning disabilities want paid work, many are unable to get a job for reasons that could so easily be overcome with the right education and awareness.
Difficulties communicating with potential employers at the interview stage, not having proper help with the application process and not being given the time or support to prove themselves and pick up new skills are just some of the factors involved.
Companies and indeed, studies, can vouch for the fact that hiring individuals with learning disabilities can present many benefits to a business. Mencap reports that some 97% of employers said they were likely to hire people with a learning disability again and furthermore, 92% of customers said they felt favourably towards companies that employed people with disabilities.
Not only do employees with learning disabilities bring a new boost of energy and enthusiasm to a role, but they are often more loyal to a company and tend to stay longer in a job. This in turn can save organisations time and money on recruitment, allowing them to input the money instead into training and incentives.
On average, an employee with a learning disability will also take significantly fewer sick days than their colleagues. A person with autism for example, becomes very committed to a role and won’t want to take time off, meaning their colleagues won’t have to deal with the pressures of an increased workload.
We have placed hundreds of people with learning difficulties into work through our EmployAbility service over the past two decades. The primary aim of the service is to find work placements, supported internships, training, volunteer opportunities and paid work for disabled people, autistic people, those with sensory needs and those with mental health problems.
We offer all the support and information you need to employ someone with a disability. From matching the right person to the roles you have available, delivering training, through to job carving and providing on-going support after employing the individual.
Despite the misconceptions that jobs can be limited for individuals with disabilities, we have seen first-hand the contribution that they can make to a company. Whether it’s working as a Book Keeper, IT Assistant or a Postal Worker, there’s so many opportunities out them for not only them, but you as a business too.
To find out more about our EmployAbility service and to register your interest, contact 01483 806806 or email info@surreychoices.com.
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