Looking for work
We're working to help people with sight loss overcome the barriers they sometimes face when looking for work: if you're looking for work, this section can provide information and advice to help.
Starting a job search can be a daunting task. There are a bewildering number of job roles in the labour market and sometimes it can be hard to know what you could and should be applying for. It is worth remembering that you are protected under the Equality Act 2010, which applies to the whole of the recruitment process. Employers have a duty to anticipate your requirements at every stage, from accessing vacancies, filling out application forms, to interview tests.
The most important thing to remember in your job search is that there is support available to help you from organisations like RNIB and Jobcentre Plus.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are a great way to gain skills, get a nationally recognised qualification and earn money at the same time. For National Apprenticeship Week 2021 RNIB Employment advisor Heather Barbara talked to one young man with sight loss about how apprenticeships have helped employers and people of all ages and backgrounds.
Further information
We have also produced a series of detailed factsheets about looking for work, covering all of the topics contained in this section in more detail:
How we can help
This is your future - a career guide for disabled students, by disabled students
This guide - produced by Leonard Cheshire Disability - provides you with the information that you need to kickstart your career. It was written by and for disabled students.
Leonard Cheshire's internship programme
Leonard Cheshire run an internship programme which brings together the UK’s top employers and talented disabled students. Details of the programme can be found at the Leonard Cheshire website.
DWP guidance for young disabled people looking to find and stay in work
The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) have produced a guide to help young disabled people find and stay in work. It includes advice on role models, careers advice, Disability Employment Advisers, workplace training, adjustments in the workplace, higher education, work experience and more.
Visit the GOV.UK website to download a copy of the help and support for young disabled people to find and stay in work guide.
Watch two films which bring to life some the work we are doing to help blind and partially sighted people get into employment.
We follow Wendy as she begins a group pre-employment programme
We look at how individually tailored support can also help those in long term unemployment
We're here for you
If you need someone who understands sight loss, call us on 0303 123 9999. Whether you're looking for emotional support or straightforward advice, we'll help you in any way we can with our Sight Loss Advice Service.
RNIB Sight Loss Advice Service