Equality Commission for Northern Ireland’s Post

Five positive actions to help create an inclusive workplace for disabled people, including autistic and neurodivergent people. 1. Provide vocational training opportunities specifically designed for disabled people to enhance their skills and employability. 2. Implement work trials or internships to give disabled candidates practical experience and assess their suitability for a role. 3. Identify and remove any barriers that may prevent disabled applicants from participating fully in the recruitment process. 4. Guarantee interviews for all applicants with a disability who meet the minimum criteria for the job. 5. Consider ring-fencing certain positions specifically for disabled people to promote representation and inclusion. We can advise you on the available support and how to access it. Contact our Employer Advice Line by calling 028 90 500 600 (Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm) or emailing information@equalityni.org. You can learn more about positive action to recruit people with disabilities here 👇 https://lnkd.in/ej-zCDTV #AutismAwarenessWeek #WAAW24

So many employers are unaware of the simple 5 #positiveactions they can embrace to truly effect change for disabled jobseekers. #SupportedEmployment providers such as ourselves can offer employers guidance on best practice as well as free practical support. If you are an employer who would like to know more about how to implement #positiveactions, then please email us @p2e@trianglehousing.org.uk #inclusion #diversitymadeeasy

We're back with another #ThursdayThoughts! where we offer valuable tips and tricks for employers of disabled candidates. Todays topic is: Supporting Disabled candidates making the move from university to the workplace. Transitioning from university to the workplace can be challenging for any student, but it can be especially daunting for disabled candidates. 1. Offer mentorship programmes or internship opportunities specifically tailored to support disabled students in gaining valuable workplace experience. 2. Provide resources and guidance on navigating the job search process, including resume writing, interview skills, and disclosure of disabilities to potential employers. 3. Partner with disability support services at universities to ensure a smooth transition for students with disabilities into the workforce. #DisabilityInclusion #TransitionToWork #DisabilityEmployment #UniversityToWork #StudentSupport #DisabilityServices #CareerDevelopment

Transforming Perspectives: The Value of Disability Disclosure and Personal Stories in Internship Applications In my review of applications for Trinity College Dublin's inclusive disabled student internship program for the summer of 2024, I uncovered rich insights that underscore the need for a deeper conversation about the internship application process, particularly for disabled students. With over 26 posts available this summer and over 300 applications thus far, I saw a wide range of approaches in the applications submitted, from highly personalised stories to more generic submissions. However, two aspects stood out: the power of personal stories and the disclosure of disabilities. The Power of Personal Narratives Personal stories in cover letters are more than just a narrative; they're a window into the applicant's world. These stories offer a deeper understanding of the candidates' backgrounds, motivations, and the unique perspectives they bring to the table. Candidates who share their journeys not only demonstrate thoughtful consideration in their submissions but also showcase their resilience, creativity, and problem-solving skills—qualities that are invaluable in any professional setting. Despite the compelling nature of these narratives, few applicants choose to share their personal stories or disclose their disabilities. This reticence may stem from a concern over how such disclosures will be received by potential employers, a concern supported by existing research which suggests that disability disclosure in the recruitment process isn't always viewed positively. Reframing Disability Disclosure The disclosure of a disability should be seen as a strength, not a vulnerability. It speaks to an applicant's lived experience navigating challenges and adapting to various situations—skills that are highly transferable to the workplace. Yet, the reality is that many still hesitate to disclose their disabilities, fearing bias or misunderstanding. As employers, educators, and colleagues, we have a responsibility to shift this narrative. We must create environments where disclosure is met with support, understanding, and a genuine appreciation for the diversity of experience that disabled individuals bring to the table. The insights gained from this year's application review highlight a valuable opportunity for continuous improvement in our internship programs and recruitment initiatives. Through this process, we aim to strengthen our recruitment practices to recognize and value the unique contributions of all candidates, particularly those with disabilities. The journey towards inclusivity and understanding is ongoing, but by changing the dialogue around disability and personal stories in applications, we can take significant steps forward. https://lnkd.in/dF8YzajW #DisabilityInclusion #InclusiveHiring #CareerDevelopment #DiversityAndInclusion #PersonalStories

Transforming Trinity through the Trinity disAbled Internship Programme As the academic year closes and summer 2024 arises, this initiative empowers disabled students with invaluable work experience, professional development, and enhanced employability. By fostering inclusivity and accessibility, TCD is setting a new standard for universities worldwide. Objectives of the Programme Empower disAbled Students: Offer practical work experience and professional skills development. Enhance Employability: Focus on resume building, interview skills, networking, and personal branding. Foster an Inclusive Work Environment: Implement accessibility measures and conduct sensitivity training. Create Networking Opportunities: Connect students with industry professionals through mentorship and alumni networks. Evaluate and Recognise Success: Conduct evaluations, gather testimonials, and award certificates of completion. Comprehensive Approach to Success Internship Placement: Secure inclusive internships across various sectors. Professional Development: Organize workshops and skill enhancement activities. Peer Mentoring: Provide guidance from experienced mentors. Inclusive Work Environment: Ensure workplace accessibility and conduct sensitivity training. Evaluation and Recognition: Regular evaluations and recognition of achievements. A Vision for the Future Trinity College Dublin's vision for "Belonging and an Inclusive Future" integrates disability objectives with broader institutional goals. This vision is brought to life through the "Three Cs": Co-Creation, Co-Production, and Co-Design. Evidence of Impact Increased Internship Placements: 30 internships offered in summer 2024 across 18 departments. Positive Feedback: Interns report increased confidence; employers praise the value added by interns. Inclusive Work Environments: Adoption of inclusive practices across TCD departments. Comparison with Other Programs Trinity disAbled Internship Programme Paid Opportunities: Provides financial support and values student contributions. Diverse Departments: Offers wide-ranging career paths. Comprehensive Support: Includes professional development workshops, peer mentoring, and accessibility measures. disAbled Leadership: Forms a community of leaders for real-time feedback and service development. The Trinity disAbled Internship Programme exemplifies TCD’s commitment to inclusivity and innovation. By embedding disabled interns within various departments, TCD provides practical work experience and fosters a culture of inclusivity and accessibility. These interns, confident in their identity, will lead positive changes, transforming workplaces and ensuring no one is left behind. The Trinity disAbled Internship Programme will make a lasting impact, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society. #Inclusivity #DisabilityAwareness #CareerEmpowerment #TrinityCollegeDublin https://lnkd.in/egmp-A6n

🌟 Being an Inclusive Employer webinar series - Supporting people with learning disability | Lunch and Learn 🌟 Join us for another installment of the Being an Inclusive Employer Series, brought to you by the South London Integration Hub. Following the success of our recent Inclusive Employment Conference, we're excited to continue supporting professionals in their journey towards inclusive employment. 📅 When: 16 April 2024, 13:00-14:00 👥 Who: Employers, managers, recruitment managers, supervisors, practitioners, Council officers, training providers 💼 What: Our next session will focus on Inclusive Recruitment - Supporting an Applicant and/or Colleague with a Learning Disability. Warren Trunchion of Status Employment will lead the discussion, providing invaluable insights into inclusive recruitment practices and highlighting the business case for employing individuals with a learning disability/disability. 🌟During the session, we'll cover: - Information about supported internships as a positive recruitment tool - Addressing myths and facts around reasonable adjustments - Hearing directly from a job seeker with a learning disability about their experiences and expectations of work 🌟By the end of the session, you'll: - Understand the disability employment gap for people with learning disabilities/difficulties - Identify the business case for employing individuals with disabilities - Gain insight into supported internships and inclusive recruitment practices - Discuss reasonable adjustments and cost-effective solutions - Begin building your own business case for inclusive recruitment 🎟 Cost: ABSOLUTELY FREE! Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your knowledge and contribute to a more inclusive workplace. Mark your calendars and RSVP now! #InclusiveEmployment #LunchAndLearn #DiversityAndInclusion #LearningDisabilityAwareness

The disability employment gap is real, and it needs to change. ⬇️ Employment rates for disabled people have dropped since the COVID-19 pandemic 📉 Disabled students with mental health conditions are less likely to secure high level employment ❌ Companies need to reduce barriers that prevent disabled people from entering the workforce Our Foundation is working to break down barriers by creating life-changing PAID internship opportunities for Disabled students and graduates nationwide.  Sign up to our mailing list to follow our work in the #DiversityandInclusion space: https://lnkd.in/eBRiTMtD #10000AbleInterns #EqualOpportunities #DisabilityInclusion #DisabilityEmployment #DisabilityAwareness

Labor force participation among Californians with disabilities increased by over 14% since 2019, which is likely due to pandemic changes that improved opportunities and/or reduced barriers, such as remote work. However, workers with disabilities still face significant barriers to employment.    In this blog post, the Public Policy Institute of California shares way to maintain recent gains in employment among people with disabilities and promote a more inclusive labor market, including providing more work-based learning, #apprenticeships, and internships: https://lnkd.in/gDit2Dz2 

It’s Celebrating Diversity Week and worth reflecting just how many amazing organisations we have in Sussex who work with and support adults and young people who are neurodiverse They are empowering and supportive, celebrating the differences that neurodiverse individuals bring to a team, the many strengths that come within thinking a little differently. In my recent research on the LSIP project, I have heard about employers that are embracing the idea that diverse teams that can solve problems in different ways and actively promote these opportunities within their organisations. I’ve met with those that work with neurodiverse business founders (who statistically are four times more likely than national average to be either dyslexic or have ADHD) Most importantly, I see a sense of togetherness and pride within the neurodiverse community, recognising that actually so much that gets done, problems that get solved and insights made to change the world, have been thanks to those with neurodiverse minds. There has been a growth in support for neurodiverse individuals, but more still needs to be done, with only 22% of autistic people currently employment. As part of the Sussex Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), we aim to be shine a light on the amazing projects that do this work and have been mapping provision across Sussex. 📢 We Need Your Insight! If you are you involved in supporting neurodiverse individuals or those with learning challenges, helping them find their path into the workforce in Sussex there is still time to participate in our short survey so that we can highlight the work of your organisation as we aim to map out the support landscape and identify how we can better serve our community. We invite responses from all organisations who would like their work to be included in our mapping, whether third sector, business, support agency, training provider, Uni or college, Your input will contribute to a comprehensive report highlighting the incredible work being done across Sussex to support neurodiverse individuals and those with learning difficulties or disabilities. This is an opportunity to showcase your efforts and be recognised as examples of good practice. Our community is enriched by diversity, and there is so much to celebrate across Sussex! Please link here to complete the short survey (no more than 5 mins!) https://lnkd.in/eJNw2dRi 📆 Deadline: Friday, 29th March Please do get in touch if you would like to talk to us directly about your project or find out more about the wider LSIP project. #InclusiveSussex #NeurodiversityInWork #SussexEmployment #PathwaysToWork #DiversityAndInclusion Alice Reeves Genius Within CIC Think Differently Joyfully Different Differing Minds Mariam Crichton Robbie W. Cognassist Diversity and Ability

Thank you Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Daniel Seiden for spotlighting Project SEARCH as the most successful internship program for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In Arizona, 344 interns have successfully graduated from the program. Consider the statistics of this untapped population: - Only 19.1% of people with intellectual disabilities are employed in the United States, compared to the employment rate of people without disabilities, which is 61.8%. - Less than one out of every two working-age adults with an intellectual disability is in the labor force, and 28% have never held a job. - The unemployment rate is 17%, which is more than double the unemployment rate for people with other disabilities and almost four times the unemployment rate for the general population. https://lnkd.in/gmFViNtq