Evidence shows that two thirds of blind and partially sighted people of working age are not in employment.
Government schemes fail to place blind and partially sighted people in work, and training and employment opportunities for those furthest from the labour market are dwindling.
With the barriers to employment for blind and partially sighted people ranging from a lack of quality support to employer misconceptions, we want to see improvements at every stage of the job seeker and employee's journey.
Specialist support and advice
Our employment service provides specialist support and advice to help blind and partially sighted people find employment, start their own business or stay in work if they are losing their sight.
Preparing for work
We offer support and guidance to blind and partially sighted people with:
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information and practical advice about each stage of the job search process, as well as advice on choosing a career, developing the skills they need and finding vacancies
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work experience and volunteering information to help people get their first step on the ladder
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a series of detailed factsheets covering all aspects of employment - available in braille, large print and audio
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emotional support available to people who may be unsure where to turn when they can no longer manage the job they have always been capable of doing.
Working with employers
The government's own research has shown that 90 per cent of employers believe that it would be impossible or difficult to employ someone with sight loss, presenting huge barriers to finding work. This is a situation that has to change.
We want employers to recognise that someone's ability and value in the workplace doesn't decrease with sight loss. With the right level of support, blind and partially sighted people can find fulfilling jobs, continue to develop in their careers and enjoy a much brighter future.
We work to change the attitude of employers by:
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offering visual awareness training to help them better understand blind and partially sighted customers and staff.
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providing information on equipment and computer software and advice on funding through the Access to Work scheme, which can help pay for assistive technology and adjustments to the workplace.
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campaigning to improve the support people with sight loss receive in the workplace and ensure welfare to work legislation from the government benefits them.
More information
For further information about the employment services we provide, please call the RNIB Helpline (Monday to Friday 8.45am to 5.30pm) on 0303 123 9999 or email helpline@rnib.org.uk.