Support for Young Disabled People to Find Employment

Young disabled people may often face additional barriers to finding and maintaining work. Careers with Disabilities are here to support young disabled people achieve their dream career and reach their future potential.

Careers Advice

Careers with Disabilities have advice, information and resources to help with all aspects of finding a job. This includes information about career opportunities for disabled people, advice about your rights as a disabled worker and how to access a range of grants and schemes. Visit our useful resources to access a free CV and Cover Letter Template.

You can also access our Disability Advice Hub where you will find support that’s specific to a range of disabilities and health conditions.

Work Experience

A CV that shows a history of work experience is a great way to show an employer you are work-ready. Work experience can be through a variety of channels, including volunteer work, summer holiday jobs, Saturday work as well as paid employment. For help with illustrating your experience for a job application, visit our useful resources to access a free CV template.

Adjustments in the Workplace

All disabled people are protected against discrimination and unfair treatment by employers under the 2010 Equality Act. Employers must offer disabled workers reasonable adjustments to enable them to fulfil their job effectively. Reasonable adjustments could include physical alterations to the workplace that enable a disabled employee to get around more easily. Adjustments could also include changes to your working hours or employment contract to help disabled employees manage their disability at work.

For further advice and support as a disabled worker, visit our guide to your rights.

Workplace Training

Training in the workplace is a great opportunity to gain first-hand experience. There are a number of workplace training options for young disabled people:

• Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships provide a great route into employment. Working as an apprentice enables you to learn new skills and gain a qualification while earning a wage.

• Traineeships

Traineeships are a great opportunity to continue your education and training after leaving school. You will also gain valuable first-hand experience in a workplace.

• Supported Internships

Supported internships help young people with complex learning difficulties learn skills to achieve sustainable paid employment.

University and Higher Education

After leaving school, going to university offers an alternative route to work or workplace training. Attending university or a high education institution may significantly improve your chances of achieving a successful career. Disabled students in England can receive financial support towards their needs while studying at university through the Disabled Students’ Allowance.

Parent Guidance

Careers with Disabilities are here to support parents in helping their child achieve their future potential. Visit our Parent Information Hub to access specific advice, support and resources.