2024-05-09 14:44:28
Extend back-to-work funding to include supported internships for learning disabled adults
Learning disability charity Hft has cautiously welcomed the Government on some of the proposals set out in the new WorkWell service, officially launched this week, but adds that existing models that are already working well need to be taken more seriously and the programme does not go far enough.
Responding to the Prime Minister’s speech in London on Tuesday, where he announced the Government will spend £64 million on a ‘WorkWell’ pilot programme to help those with disabilities or health conditions return to work, Hft’s CEO, Steve Veevers, said:
“The language used on fit notes and plans to increase the prospect of employment for learning disabled adults is a positive step forward, but there are good models like DFN PROJECT Search, of which Hft is a partner, which are already helping those who need it to become work ready.
“This WorkWell programme is predicated on people ‘planning’ their way out of unemployment. Hft knows that, for many disabled people, that just isn’t the case.
“For some learning disabled people, having the right support at the right time is a lifeline to moving into and staying in work, but the learning disability employment gap is considerably higher than that of other disabled people. Education, training and support are all essential components.
“We believe funding for programmes such as supported internships must be available not only through education routes (and individuals with EHCPs), but also to adults over the age of 25 so they can access this vital support on their journey to work.
“Including supported internships as part of the Work and Health Programme would be one way to ensure more learning disabled people over the age of 25 could access this vital support. The one-size-fits-all approach to this programme does not do service to many disabled people and their individual needs,” Steve says.
The scheme, funded and run by Government, provides personal support to identify employment needs, get training to help people find work as well as match skills to available employment.
“We want to see people with a learning disability receive the right support so they can find and keep fulfilling and meaningful work, where they are paid the same as others doing the same job. Employers and the public must also understand that learning disabled people can make valuable contributions in the workplace when given the right support, and recognise this in their recruitment and working practices.”
Notes to editors
For further information please email media.enquiries@hft.org.uk
About Hft
Proudly established in 1962 by a group of visionary parents, Hft is a charity supporting more than 2,500 learning disabled adults in England and Wales. Together, we are creating a future where learning disabled people and their families can live the best life possible.
Providing personalised support. Creating solutions for living independently. Coming together to campaign for positive change. Fundraising for new opportunities and a bigger impact.
In 2033, we’ll live in a world where learning disabled people have greater choice. About where they live. The support they need and want. And how to spend their time and money.
Learning disability versus difficulty
A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty but the terms are often confused and used inter-changeably. A learning difficulty does not affect general intellect, whereas a learning disability is a life-long condition characterised by a reduced intellectual ability and struggle with everyday activities.
–
For more information about Hft please visit www.hft.org.uk
