Campaigning for rehabilitation leave
RNIB Scotland has supported John Robertson, Labour MP for Glasgow Northwest, in introducing a 10-Minute Rule Bill calling for the introduction of rehabilitation leave. Rehabilitation leave, also known as disability leave, would give vital support to anyone in work who develops a disability.
Fighting work place discrimination
More than 70 per cent of blind and partially sighted people of working age in Scotland are unemployed. RNIB Scotland is campaigning to raise awareness of the issue and to reduce unemployment among people with sight problems.
We also campaign to raise awareness of our Employment Services. We assist people with sight problems to find employment or to remain in work if they develop difficulties with their sight.
The RNIB report, "Beyond the stereotypes" (Word), revealed that nine out of ten employers may be breaking the law by discriminating against people with sight problems. The report marked the launch of our Work Matters campaign.
Funding for residential training
Although the Scottish Government is committed to assisting people with disabilities to join the work force, blind and partially sighted people in Scotland are not provided with funding for residential training, despite RNIB Scotland offering purpose-built facilities. RNIB Scotland is pressing the Scottish Government to provide financial support as is already available in England.