Employment Service
The Employment Service provides wrap around support for disabled people with all aspects of employment.
We provide information, support, and guidance for those looking for work.
We are partners on 3 Supported Internships with LBHF/Loreal, RBKC and Project Search Charing Cross. We also provide information, support and guidance on how to set up and manage Apprenticeships and Traineeships programmes.
As a part of our service, we work with and train employers on how to become a more inclusive employer.
Looking for work
We provide a range of support in assisting with completing job application forms making the recruitment process more accessible and supporting with follow ups on submitted applications. All support is tailored to the individual which means you can look for the work you want, in the way you want.
Furthermore, we help with Access to Work support. Negotiating reasonable adjustments and in-work support, which can include continual training and progression. The employment service also offers training workshops including Employment Rights.
In Work
We provide Job Coaches, Support Workers, mentors and travel support under the DWP Access to Work scheme.
We educate employers in understanding their duties under the Equality Act 2010 and assist them in making reasonable adjustments for their employees at work and during the recruitment process.
Supported Internships
We have a track-record of great success in enabling young people with learning disabilities to gain direct work training within top businesses, hotels, hospitals and other organisations leading directly to employment.
We run three of these Supported Internships for young disabled people aged 17-25. They are at Charing Cross Hospital, Hammersmith and Fulham Council, and Kensington and Chelsea Council.
Follow-on support
The follow-on service provides support for graduates from Supported Internship programmes across London with a tailored approach. The support is provided by a Project Coordinator who works closely alongside the job coaches and tutors from the Supported Internships, to make a plan for each graduate. Support is provided to any graduate in any capacity required. This includes interview support, travel training, training support and supporting HR with Job Carving.
As part of the service, individuals are provided with support with preparing and applying for employment or volunteer opportunities. This includes negotiating reasonable adjustments and assisting with Access to Work applications.
Jodie
“When I came to AoD they helped me out a huge amount; they got my confidence up and gave me good advice and guidance. They set me up with a trial at the National Theatre. At the end of the trial the National offered me a paid job. I was so proud of myself. AoD are still supporting me and it makes a huge difference to know that they are there by my side. Disabled people can work if you give them a chance to show you what their skills are, I’d like to support other disabled people so they don’t sit indoors and feel like they can’t do it; just get out there and follow your dreams.”
Paige
Former Intern working at the National Theatre – Employed for 5 years
“Due to Covid-19 I was about to be made redundant from the National Theatre, and I needed support and help to find work, due to my impairment I needed help with applications, CV, interviews and work adjustments. Action on Disability helped me with training and improving my confidence and independence. Now, I am working 3 different part time jobs; Usher at the National Theatre; Radio presenter and Social Media Assistant and Peer Support Facilitator. I am very grateful for their help and hope to stay in touch.”
Mithul
Former intern who lost his job at Nando’s due to Covid-19
“I was on a supported internship and placement when we went into Lockdown so I could not finish my placements. I had a part time job at Nando’s but unfortunately, I was made redundant due to Covid-19. Action on Disability have been very helpful and have helped me with interview skills, job applications and lot of general advice.”
Alastair
We’re so pleased that Alastair, one of our supported interns, is doing so well in his job at Gail’s Bakery. He undertook three placements organised by AoD, and then applied for the job, supported by our job coach. “I even prefer this to an office; I love working with a really nice team over the money”. Alastair aspires to become a manager of the bakery one day and is glad to have his foot in the right place on the career ladder.
A special thanks to those who make AoD’s Employment Service such a success:
