The Trainee Grade Scheme provides 50 week fixed term paid work experience placements to unemployed blind and partially sighted people in the UK. The Scheme, which has run since 2001, plays a valuable role in bridging the gap between ABILITY to work and the lack of experience in paid employment often cited as the reason why 66 per cent of blind and partially sighted people of working age are currently unemployed.
20 per cent of each trainee's time is spent on training and development activities, individually tailored to compliment each person's previous experience, skills, strengths and career aspirations. The ultimate aim of the scheme is that trainees go on to find another job following the 50 week placement and each trainee is individually supported to achieve this.
Trainee Grade Scheme posts are listed on RNIB's website and the recruitment and selection procedure is the same as for any other RNIB job, i.e. applicants are shortlisted and interviewed prior to appointment. We offer a variety of job opportunities including roles in administration, marketing, technology, catering, music and leisure. Whilst the majority of posts are based within RNIB in England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales, we're also able to offer, from time to time, the opportunity to work in external organisations. To date, these have included Skill and the Environment Agency as well as various local societies for blind and partially sighted people.
So far, we have worked with over 100 trainees, 70 per cent of whom have progressed directly into unsupported employment.
The last word comes from a former TGS trainee who went on to begin a successful career in the voluntary sector:
"I am absolutely positive that I would not have got the job without the experience and confidence I have gained on the trainee grade scheme."
If you are interested in Trainee Grade Scheme roles or you would like further information, please contact:
Stephen Portlock on 020 7391 2038 or email
Stephen.portlock@rnib.org.uk
If you are an employer and would like to get involved by offering external placements, sponsorship or you would like further information on how you can contribute to this successful and highly acclaimed scheme, please contact
Kudirat Adeniyi 020 7391 2057 or email
Kudirat.adeniyi@rnib.org.uk
Or Caroline Huntley on 020 7391 2256 or email
Caroline.huntley@rnib.org.uk