What we want
- People with a learning disability should have the opportunity to get a paid job, including full-time work. There are currently only 1 in 10 people with a learning disability known to social services in paid work. Mencap is campaigning to give more people with a learning disability the opportunity to work.
- Every person with a learning disability is an individual, with different skills and talents. With the right support and opportunities people with a learning disability are able to make a valuable contribution in the workplace.
- Paid employment brings greater independence and self-worth. It allows people to play a more active part in the wider community and helps people to take control of their lives. People with a learning disability have a right to these things, as everyone does. However, because of the many barriers to employment which people with a learning disability face, the opportunities to achieve their full potential are too often denied to them.
- Mencap's network of employment and education services work with people with a learning disability to develop the skills they need for the workplace and provide support to get and keep rewarding jobs. They provide a range of practical support and training, including:
- training on how to get to and from work using public transport
- searching for a job, writing a CV and making job applications
- mock interviews to build confidence and help overcome nerves
- placements for people who will benefit from work experience before searching for a permanent job
- on-the-job training to help people get settled in and understand what the job requires
- ongoing support and advice if any difficulties arise or if any further skills training is needed
- Mencap's employment services work closely with employers to find work experience and jobs for people with a learning disability.
- Mencap's close relationships with employers have enabled them to find rewarding, paid work for people with a learning disability in wide variety of settings including:
- cafes, restaurants and garden centres
- offices and factories
- supermarkets, DIY centres and other shops
- care homes and children's nurseries
- postal services and public utilities (e.g. electricity suppliers)
- Employing people with a learning disability can have wide-ranging benefits for employers. These include:
- access to an untapped pool of labour
- high staff retention, reduced turnover and low recruitment costs
- a diverse and representative workforce
- a boost to commitment and morale of existing staff
- an enhanced reputation with employees, customers and other stakeholders
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