| Government Objective: To enable people with learning disabilities to participate in all forms of employment, wherever possible in paid work, and to make a valued contribution to the world of work. The Government White Paper (Valuing People, chapt. 7, Page 84) |
|---|
Disabled people account for 19% of the working age population in the UK yet make up only 12% of the total population in employment. Only 7% of people with a learning disability are in employment (mostly part-time). This figure decreases to only 4% for learning disabled people living in residential care. (OP Objective 3 2000-2006)
Access to Employment is a unique service committed to provide a clear direction for people with learning disabilities in their search for employment.
Barriers faced by learning disabled adults include exclusion, stereotyping and attitudes toward specific groups, low expectation and lack of equal opportunities and discrimination. We aim to build upon our successes from our previous European / DCC-funded projects to enable us to pilot new and innovative ways of working with learning disabilities - fulfilling objectives set out in the Government White Paper and hopefully leading to more corporate and integrated approaches of delivering elements of the modernisation of day services agenda.
All 70 beneficiaries of the project have been identified as having the necessary motivation to access employment opportunities having undertaken a comprehensive Baseline Assessment created in the previous Euro-funded project. Our new project will maintain our strong partnerships with other agencies and organisations throughout Devon and the UK - contributing to the employment and learning strategy for Devon.
Access to Employment supports people with a range of Learning Disabilities who are disadvantaged in the labour market, from those with a mild disability to those with more complex needs, some having additional disabilities such as sensory, physical or mental health issues
The Access Project (2000 - 2003) successfully worked with many beneficiaries during its 3 year lifespan; the majority of our beneficiaries achieved outcomes such as recognised qualifications and successful community placements with over 40% of our beneficiaries currently receiving national minimum wage. Our new project will create an environment with core values of learning and personal development. We will promote a person-centred approach and value diversity and equal opportunities.
We have a qualified and experienced staff team who will work in conjunction with other professionals and agencies including Exeter College, Integer Training Ltd, Pluss, Jobcentre Plus, Connexions and DCC’s Occupational Therapy department. We have recently moved from The Nichols Centre in Polsloe Road to refurbished premises at Exeter Community Centre.
About us
Back to top