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Help in Finding a Job

For many people, dyslexia can present a serious obstacle to finding a job. A bad experience of education may result in a lack of confidence and self-esteem. Problems with reading and writing can make it difficult to apply for jobs. It may also be difficult to do some aspects of a job without the employer making some adjustments.

Next Step.

Next Step is a government funded organisation which gives you access to information, careers advice and resources, which can help you make more effective skills, work and life choices. In some areas of the country Next Step funds literacy training for dyslexia.
Website: https://nextstep.direct.gov.uk/Pages/Home.aspx

JobcentrePlus.

Jobseekers who have dyslexic difficulties, whether formally diagnosed or not, would be advised to make an appointment at their local JobcentrePlus with the Disability Employment Adviser (D.E.A). Some Jobcentres have contracts with specialist providers who can support dyslexic adults.

Resolving these difficulties will not always be easy. However, people with dyslexia may be eligible for help from government schemes such as Workstep and New Deal. The aim of these schemes is to help people with a disability find, and keep, a suitable job.

Who is eligible for help under Workstep or New Deal?

Work Step.

The Workstep employment programme provides support to disabled people facing complex barriers to getting and keeping a job. It also offers practical assistance to employers. Your Disability Employment Adviser would be able to advise you whether this would be suitable for you.

If you are not working at the moment, this can mean helping you to decide what type of work you want, how to prepare to look for work, to support you in gaining your job and finally, to work with both you and your employer in order to support you both in making the job successful and overcoming any barriers that may arise.

New Deal.

This is a programme for people in receipt of health related or disability benefits who are ready to move into work. For eligibility details and information visit their website.

What do these schemes offer?

  • Profiling: help to identify an appropriate kind of job.
  • Training: if necessary, training to improve relevant job skills.
  • Job-seeking skills: help with C.V. and making applications.
  • Help with interviews: coaching in interview skills; advice on how to discuss health issues at interview; and, if necessary; someone to accompany you to interview.
  • On-going support: agencies can work with an employer to make reasonable adjustments in the workplace to help you do the job.

Organisations offering help and practical support to jobseekers with disabilities.

Careers Advice for Young People.

Including advice on a whole range of life issues.

Remploy.

Shaw Trust.

Leonard Cheshire.

R.B.L.I. (Royal British Legion Industries) Employment Service aims to provide employment and training for people with disabilities, regardless of whether or not they have come from and ex-Service background.

Job Search.
http://www.disabilityjobsite.co.uk

For Graduates and Students.
http://www.employ-ability.org.uk