There is a range a government support available to help blind and partially sighted people into work. This page gives an overview of some of the main types of support.
In the first instance, we recommend that you speak to one of our employment specialists at your local RNIB/Action centre, who will be able to advise you on the support available to you. To speak to your local employment specialist, ring our Helpline on 0303 123 9999.
It is also a good idea to speak to your local Health and Disability Advisor (formerly known as Disability Employment Advisors) at your local Jobcentre Plus.
Our employment specialists can help you to establish and develop these links.
Access to Work
Access to Work is a scheme run by Jobcentre Plus. The scheme provides advice and practical support to disabled people to enable them to work alongside their colleagues in inclusive and accessible working environments.
The scheme pays a grant towards any extra employment costs that result from a disability, such as adaptations to the workplace, or specialist equipment.
You can find out more about the scheme by going to the Access to Work section, or downloading the factsheet from the Employment factsheets section.
Work Choice
Work Choice is the most common programme for people with disabilities. It helps people whose needs cannot be met through other work programmes, Access to Work or workplace adjustments. This might be because you need more specialised support to find employment or keep a job once you have started work.
If Work Choice is for you it will be tailored to meet your individual needs. It will focus on helping you achieve your full potential and moving towards being more independent. For more information vist the GOV.UK website: Work Choice page.
Work Programme
The Work Programme can help you prepare for, find and stay in work. If you're already working part-time, it could help you to increase your hours. The Work Programme may include you taking part in activities to help you find work, such as work experience and training. However, it is not specifically designed for people with disabilities. For more information vist the GOV.UK website: Help with moving from benefits to work page.
Residential training
Residential training is for people who need to develop new skills or to re-train to go in to employment.
The training usually takes place in a residential setting in accessible buildings. Staff members with specialist knowledge of disability issues teach the courses.
Also, confusing as it sounds, Residential training doesn't have to be residential. Some of the providers offer distance learning or programmes in people's home areas. For more information visit the GOV.UK website: Residential training for disabled adults page.
Youth contract
The Youth Contract is designed to help young unemployed people get a job. Initiatives include apprenticeships, voluntary work experience placements and sector-based work academies. For more information visit the DWP website: Youth contract page.
Other types of support
There are other types of support available, such as funding and grants, Work Trials, and Employment on Trail. For more information visit GOV.UK's working, jobs and pensions section .