We want to help blind and partially sighted people to become more employable and to find jobs.
To help people who develop a sight problem while in employment to keep their jobs.
Becoming more employable
Our services include:
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Confidence building - group sessions to make people more assertive, realise their potential and to meet other people with sight loss.
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Computer training for blind and partially sighted people - learn to use magnification and screen-reading software, as well as any other assistive technology.
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Providing accredited qualifications such as ECDL and CLAIT.
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Work experience - get help in finding a work placement and the opportunity to try out different jobs and develop new skills.
Finding a job
Our services cover:
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Career guidance - advice on a suitable career path and information on the kinds of jobs blind and partially sighted people are doing.
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Designing a CV and filling in application forms.
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Job searching - help with scanning newspaper and websites and accessing the local job centre.
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Interview preparation - learn how to perform well in an interview and to speak positively about having an eye condition.
Keeping a job
Our services include:
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Employment assessment - guidance for an employer as to how to make the work place accessible for blind and partially sighted employees.
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Technology assessment and training - advice on equipment or computer software that can help blind and partially sighted people to do their job, as well as training in how to use it.
Visual Awareness Training
This is delivered to staff who work with blind and partially sighted colleagues to dispel common myths/untruths and to increase awareness of sight loss and how it affects people.
Visual Awareness Training was delivered to front line staff at the University of Ulster campuses in Jordanstown and Coleraine in June 2011.
Our Employment Service worked along side the Employers Forum for Disability NI (EFDNI) to organise this.
The training sessions were very well received with both groups providing excellent feedback.
Andrea Begley, a Service User living inthe Belfast area, co delivered one of the sessions. As a result of her contribution, the EFDNI now want to use her personal story for a series of case studies they are compiling and will be appearing on their website.
Areas covered in these sessions include:
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Guiding techniques
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Simulation spectacles (sim specs)
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Information on support to people with sight loss already in employment and those looking for work
For further information regarding visual awareness training, please contact one of our employment team, email: employmentni@rnib.org.uk
Information for Parents and Young People
Download this guide for young people with sight loss and their parents, on making decisions when leaving school.
Bridging the Gap (Word, 4.92mb)
Contact Us
If you would like support or advice, or if you just want some more information.
Contact one of the Employment/Technology team.
Belfast
Tel: 028 9032 9373
Derry/Londonderry
Tel: 028 7136 6060
Email: employmentni@rnib.org.uk
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