# Copy of Table1

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Offers support information and advice about autism and Aspergers Syndrome, including Autism Helpline, publications and information re employment and transition.

Other information:
Helpline No. 0870 600 8585.  Website contains details of current vacancies at NAS and informative frequently asked questions.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Offers assessment, training, rehabilitation and long term care for people with epilepsy.  Information + Education Service provide help, advice and resources, direct line 01494 601 337.

Other information:
Helpline No. 01494 601 400.  Website includes information on epilepsy and employment.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Offer work preparation service in Employment and Training centres based in London, Liverpool, Carlisle and Preston.  Service is tailored to individual needs and can include advice and support on self-marketing and CV's and applications.  AfBP will offer a mock interview for each specific jobs clients may have.

Other information:
Clients must be referred by the Disability Employment Adviser via the Job Centre.  Although Action for Blind People specialise in working with people with visual impairments, their Employment and Training Centres and the services they offer are open to all people regardless of the type of disability.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Advising on issues relating to employment and education.  Can provide opportunities for people who contact us to gain skills in office procedure and administration by voluntary work in our modern office facility.  The ADO provides a wide-ranging information service, both to dyslexics and non-dyslexics, teachers, universities and colleges.

Other information:
National Helpline: 020 7924 9559.  The Helpline provides support and advice, up to date information about assessments, tuition, training and other issues of interest to adult dyslexics.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Information and advice re arthritis.  Booklet "Employment Information for People with Disabilities" answers many questions about employment and arthritis.  Also offers further advice, information and training.

Other information:
There are regional offices in Northern Ireland, Scotland (Glasgow), North England (Wakefield), Central England (Nottingham), South West England (West Looe, Cornwall), South East England (Royston, Herts) and Wales.  The "Working Horizons" programme has now been withdrawn.


Name of Organisation:
Association for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Offers advice and information for people with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.

Other information:
Regional offices are across the country.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Offer advice, support, friendship and vital contact to young people with ME.

Other information:
Produce "Cheers" - a monthly magazine to support the members.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Provide 'matching' process to link students and graduates with disabilities with barrister with a similar disability.

Other information:
Student must write or ring, explaining the nature of their disability + their plans for coming to the bar, or queries they may have.  Enclosing a CV is preferable but not essential.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Operate the Job Covenant Scheme - which addresses the high unemployment rate for partially sighted and blind people.  Help fund placements (which often lead to employment) and employment.  Advice and support includes CVs, application forms, interviews, career development, job retention and liaising between student/graduate and potential employer.

Other information:
Also run Volunteer Programme - this has a limited number of volunteer vacancies in their offices for visually impaired people who wish to gain or update their work skills.  Examples of areas of work may include publicity, administration and finance, training and research.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
The aim of Breakthrough is to develop innovative work with deaf and hearing people which enables them to improve their quality of life through contact, information and training.

Other information:
The Pathway to Management will be through courses for those new to management and go on to training for existing "middle managers" and those who want to go on to senior management through, for example, an MBA course.  The courses will be internal and external, developed in partnership with other groups.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Mobile: 07931 703291.  BBC has 2 Production Training Schemes each year run by their Disability Programmes Unit - last 2 years.  Also run national placement scheme for students with disabilities for up to 12 weeks.

Other information:
Placements often advertised in "Disability Now"


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Support,  advice and information re living and working with diabetes.

Other information:
Freephone to order publications - 0800 585088.  Produced booklet "Diabetes and Employment" £1.20 plus postage and package which includes information on the Disability Discrimination Act, disclosing diabetes and diabetes in the workplace.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Can offer advice and support re employment, eg interview techniques, information to employers, can provide free information pack.

Other information:
0845 603 2001 - Offer fully confidential telephone and counselling service Monday - Friday 10 - 12 and 2 - 4.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
To assist and support people with Osteogenesis Imperfecta.  Also provides information regarding all statutory and charitable services which they are entitled to.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Encourages people with facial disfigurement and society to deal positively with facial disfigurement.  Offers advice and information and has a range of booklets for sale.

Other information:
Booklets include:  Managing disfigurement in the workplace.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Management development opportunity for high calibre graduates with a disability.  Has approximately 10 placements a year.

Other information:
Although set up by Scope (focussing on people with cerebral palsy) Fast-Track is open to people with any disability.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Offer placements for 1 or 2 weeks in departments including personnel, administration + programmes.  Placements are designed to fit in with student's interests.

Other information:
GMTV provide 2 six week placements in the summer through Workable.  Students are advised to go through Workable for these placements.  For shorter one or two week placements students can go directly to GMTV.  There are no fixed numbers or timings of the shorter placements, but towards the end of the year is easier for GMTV.


Name of Organisation:
Headway National Head Injuries Association

Contact Name(s):
Marian Carey (Information Services Manager)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
There are over 100 local groups and branches across the country.

Other information:
Headway has produced 2 booklets relating to head injury and employment.  "Returning to Work after Head Injury: A Help Yourself Guide", "Preparing for Work after Head Injury" - this looks at work placements and vocational training.


Contact Name(s):
Mrs Sandra Russell - Recruitment Consultant

Address(2):
Latton Bush Centre, Southern Way, Harlow

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Counselling - help to determine what you want to do and what you are able to do.  Career planning - help to plan a successful career strategy.  Looking for work - help with hunting for the right job.  Getting that job - help with interview skills, drawing up a CV and personal presentation.  Information - help with advice about benefits and getting further qualifications.

Other information:
Only operates in NW Essex.  Ideas+ is an independent recruitment agency that assists people with disabilities to find work.  They are a professional organisation and their aim is to find the best person for the job. They provide expertise and advice to potential employers of disabled job seekers.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Sets up mental health support groups, aiming to address factors that affect students' mental health.

Other information:
The project is a joint venture between the National Schizophrenia Fellowship and the NUS to support students with mental health difficulties and still enable them to continue with their studies.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Supports and advises people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and Post-Viral Fatigue Syndrome (PVFS).

Other information:
Also runs MEGA, the ME Association's group for young people, is run for and by people below the age of 26 who have the disabilities above, e-mail mega@meaypg.cix.co.uk.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Information support and advice (including advocacy, employment and training scheme) for anyone experiencing mental distress.

Other information:
Information Line outisde London 0345 660 163.  220 local centres - details on website.  Website has very good search facility and includes information on employing people with mental health problems.  Surviving Working Life:  The MIND guide to staying well in the workplace focussing on paid employment, looks at, amongst other issues, how to keep your job after a breakdown and your rights.  Cost £1 + 19p p+p from MIND.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Support and advice and information for people with Multiple Sclerosis.

Other information:
Helpline: 0808 800 8000.  Information booklet: A Guide to Staying in Work - aims to help people with Multiple Sclerosis consider some  the potential employment issues they may face and how these can be dealt with.  There are local branches of the MS Society across the country.


Name of Organisation:
National Assoc. for Colitis & Crohn's Disease (NACC)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Information line can give help and advice over the telephone.  There is also a range of leaflets including Inflammatory (IBD) + Employment.

Other information:
Website includes a Student Information Sheet addressing the transition to life as university student and the implications for this.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Advice, information and support for people with schizophrenia and their families, trends and professionals.  General enquiries cover rehabilitation, employment, legal matters and grants.

Other information:
Advice Line No. 020 8974 6814  10 - 3pm Monday -Friday.  Email: advice@nsf.org.uk


Name of Organisation:
Opportunities for People with Disabilities

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Opportunities aims to help people with all types of disability, seen and unseen, to break down the barriers of disability and find employment.  It operates throughout the UK through a network of Regional Centres and Job Clubs.  The organisation provides assistance with identifying abilities, vacancy searches, preparing CVs and job applications, preparing for interview and obtaining aids and equipment.  These services are provided free of charge to clients and employers.

Other information:
People are always referred to Opportunities via the Disability Employment Adviser at job centres.  It does not operate outise of this framework because of funding.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Provides employment and training in IT and Business Administration up to NVQ Level 3.  Employment Service Officers can assist in building self confidence and 'work ready' skills.

Other information:
Training centres are in London, Luton and Wolverhampton.  Refresher courses are also available for those who might not need/want NVQ qualifications or for those who want general personal development.


Address(1):
Disability Times Trust, 5th Floor West Wing

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
PtP = 9 month employment training scheme for disabled people.  Based in West London + Southwark in conjunction with London College of Printing, Disability Times Trust and Disability Times Newspaper.  Scheme and training includes desk top publishing and journalism, 'hands on' work experience, personal development, mentoring, portfolio of published work.

Other information:
Candidates spend half the week at Disability Times Trust and half the week at London College of Printing.  Initially funded for one year, the first tranche finishes in June 2000.  Awaiting confirmation of further funding to continue with scheme.


Name of Organisation:
Prospects Employment Consultancy (Autism and Asperger Syndrome)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Specialised employment scheme for people with autism and Asperger.  People must be referred by DEA, must be unemployed.  Services provided include work tasks, liaising with employers, adaptation needs.

Other information:
At present, this scheme only operates in London, Glasgow and  Sheffield.  Over the next two years will open in Manchester and Leeds.


Name of Organisation:
Repetitive Strain Injury Association (RSI)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Advice and information on RSI and strategies to cope.

Other information:
Freephone Helpline 0800 018 5012, Monday - Friday 11.30am - 4pm.  The website is self-help for people with RSI.  To join send a blank e-mail to rsi-uk-join@rsi-uk.org.uk


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
A website and information line to give advice, support and information to employers, employment professionals and employees about the employment of people who are blind or partially sighted.

Other information:
VISAGE = Visual Impairments + Standards in Adult Guidance + Employment.  This is a European Social Fund (ESF) funded project in collaboration with RNIB.  The sole purpose to improve prospects of unemployed VI people.  Website has access to "Choices - Update" quarterly newsletter (started July 99) covering issues re employment and education.  Also has useful 'discussion board'  -  used to discuss issues relating to the employment of people with sight problems.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Tel: 020 7627 1716 (Voice).  A range of information including current vacancies, working with deaf people, working from home +  DDA + employment.


Name of Organisation:
Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Support, information and advice on employment issues, specialist equipment.

Other information:
Helpline No. 0808 808 0123.  Running the Employment and Learning Projects (via regional offices).  Addressing inequalities in the job market for deaf people.  Helpline can also be written to at the Head Office address.  Users can also call in, in person, to Headquarters - signer is available.  RNIB also aware grants for academic study into deaf-related areas - though particularly tinnitus, cochilear implants + age related hearing loss.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Provides information on all forms of mental illness and offers support to sufferers, their friends and families and professionals.

Other information:
Also run SANELINE (Helpline) 0345 678 000 Every day 2pm to 12 midnight…(this is the only national out-of-hours telephone helpline dealing with mental health).   SANE is based in London but also has satellite offices in Macclesfield in Cheshire and Bristol.  SANELINE is always on the look out for volunteers to operate the helpline.  Volunteers need to live within a 25 mile radius of London, Bristol or Macclesfield and do not need any specific educational qualifications.  They are required to be non-judgemental, have empathy with those affected by mental illness and be willing to work one 4 hour shift per week on the helpline - and be prepared to go through SANELINE's thorough initial training and probation and subsequently to attend an on-going programme.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Can offer help, advice and information re employment + Cerebral Palsy.  Also have supported employment schemes.

Other information:
Helpline No. 0808 800 3333.  Also run Fast Track - graduate scheme.  See information under Fast Track


Name of Organisation:
Sense - The National Deafblind & Rubella Association

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Minicom 0121 687 1564.  Tricia's Mobile 07747793330.  Identifying deafblind people looking for employment, providing support during career guidance + planning enabling deafblind people to access vocational quals setting up and supporting work exp, job placements and real jobs, providing support + training for professionals working with deafblind people, employers and work colleagues.

Other information:
This is a joint project under the heading of Staffordshire Employment Development Project, jointly run by Staffordshire County Council + Sense.


Name of Organisation:
Sense - The National Deafblind and Rubella Association

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Offers advice, support and information for people who are deafblind.  Also addresses Ushers syndrome.  See Sense West Midlands for regional project centred on employment.


Contact Name(s):
Tricia Golinski - Information Resource Officer

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Providing rehabilitation, training, work tasters and employment support  for disabled people.  Supporting and advising employers in the employment of people with a disability.  Working with Social Services, Health Services, TECs, government departments and voluntary sector partners to help disabled people find employment.

Other information:
Minicom: 0345 697 288.  Shaw Trust has details for current vacancies within the organisation at http://www.shaw-trust.org.uk/vacancy.html.  Have a range of projects operating including New Deal - Employer Options.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Offers work placements to students/graduates from 3 weeks to 1 year.  Careers areas include law, media, insurance industry, the arts + the Civil Service.

Other information:
Also has European Links.  Workable Centre Network Europe plant, opportunities in Austria, Germany, Greece, Italy and Netherlands.  Also offers bursaries for disabled graduates to train in journalism.


Contact Name(s):
Saskia Van Vliet - Supported Employment Officer

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
3 main services: Supported employment - offer grants to employers, job search, career choice + technical advice.  Open employment support - CVs etc.  Self employment - help with action planning obtaining relevant grant etc.


# Index

Directory:
Directory of External Agencies providing Advice and Services for Students and Graduates with Disabilities


# Table1

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Helps blind and partially sighted people access a wide range of jobs and career development opportunities at Employment Centres in Carlisle, Liverpool, Preston and South London. Offers Employment training, advice and practical support in finding and retaining a job, self-employment and work experience.

Other information:
Clients must be referred by the Disability Employment Adviser via the Job Centre.  Although Action for Blind People specialises in working with people with visual impairments, its Employment and Training Centres and the services they offer are open to all people with disabilities.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Offers advice on issues relating to employment and education.  The ADO can also provide opportunities for people to gain skills in office procedure and administration by voluntary work in the head office.  Individuals can contact the ADO directly to organise this.  The ADO provides a wide-ranging information service, both to dyslexics and non-dyslexics, teachers, universities and colleges.

Other information:
National Helpline: 020 7924 9559.  The Helpline provides support and advice, up to date information about assessments, tuition, training and other issues of interest to adults with dyslexia.


Name of Organisation:
AHEAD (Association for Higher Education Access and Disability)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
It is developing an Employers' Forum on Disability to disseminate good practice, research issues relating to access to employment by students and graduates with disabilities, provide support to employers, provide training for employers and create employer/education links.  A graduate network is planned as part of the Employers' Forum - an email/internet based network of graduates supporting and advising HEI's and employers on employment based issues.  There will also be a peer support network to students and graduates with disabilities and a support mentor network for Careers Advisers working with students with disabilities.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Offers information and advice about arthritis. Information includes the  booklet "Employment Information for People with Arthritis" answering many questions about employment and arthritis.

Other information:
Helpline: 020 7380 6555 Mon - Fri 10 - 4
Freephone: 080 8800 4050 Mon - Fri 12 - 4
There are regional offices in Northern Ireland, Scotland (Glasgow), North England (Wakefield), Central England (Nottingham), South West England (West Looe, Cornwall), South East England (Royston, Herts) and Wales.


Name of Organisation:
Association for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (ASBAH)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Offers advice and information for people with spina bifida and hydrocephalus, including issues in the workplace.

Other information:
Regional offices are across the country.


Name of Organisation:
Association of Blind and Partially Sighted Teachers and Students (ABAPSTAS)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
The ABAPSTAS supports blind and partially sighted teachers and students by sharing experiences and offering advice and information.  One of its key roles is to put people in touch with one another e.g. a partially sighted undergraduate wanting to teach in further education could be put in touch with someone already in that role.

Other information:
The ABAPSTAS have an on-line newsletter which contains news and information about teaching.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
ADP offers information on employment and employment related disability issues.  Peer to peer professional advice is preferred.  Information sheet topics include:  Employment and Training for Disabled People, The Jobseekers Act and a Jobhunting Guide for Disabled People.  A range of booklets include the "Being In" series - currently "Being in Management", "Being in Teaching" and "Being in Self-Employment" are available.


Name of Organisation:
Association of Young People with ME (AYME)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Offers advice, support, friendship and vital contact to young people with ME.  Produces "Cheers" - a bi-monthly magazine to support the members, and includes articles regarding working and studying with ME.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Assists and gives support to people with depression and manic depression through support groups in 60 locations throughout Ireland.  Also funds research unit.  Produces publications including a quarterly magazine, information packs and general literature.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Provides a  'matching' process to link students and graduates with disabilities with barristers with a similar disability.

Other information:
Student must write or ring, explaining the nature of their disability and  their plans for coming to the bar, or queries they may have.  Enclosing a CV is preferable but not essential.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
The BDRC has an Employment and Training service which offers support to assist people with disabilities into work and training.  Support and information includes: careers guidance and information, help to find employment, work experience, voluntary work and self employment.

Other information:
This organisation is specifically for disabled people living in Birmingham.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Blind Business Association is a charitable trust. It is a self-help group for visually impaired people wanting to start their own business.  It can also offer help and advice for people considering self-employment as an option.  Financial assistance may be advanced to start a business, but the actual specifics depend on the nature of the business.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Operates the Job Covenant Scheme which addresses the high unemployment rate for partially sighted and blind people.  Helps find placements (which often lead to employment) and employment.  Advice and support includes CVs, application forms, interviews, career development, job retention and liaising between student/graduate and potential employer.  Advises employers on adjustments to assessment centres and work place.

Other information:
Also runs Volunteer Programme.  There is a limited number of volunteer vacancies in Blind in Business for visually impaired people who wish to gain or update their work skills.  Examples of areas of work may include publicity, administration and finance, training and research.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Employment Officers and Support Assistants help people with disabilities find work.  It also provides support to employers.  Works on a variety of options:  open employment, supported employment,"Benefit Plus",  placements and work related training on own sites.  They also provide disability awareness training and support to employers.

Other information:
It is set up to provide training, employment and business opportunities to disabled people within the social model of disability.  It is a company controlled and managed in the majority by disabled people to research, develop and deliver appropriate services which promote and support independent living for disabled people.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
The aim of Breakthrough is to develop innovative work with deaf and hearing people which enables them to improve their quality of life through contact, information and training.

Other information:
Offers four pathways to personal development of which Pathway to Management is one.  The Pathway to Management will be through courses for those new to management, training for existing "middle managers" and those who want to go on to senior management through, for example, an MBA course.  The courses will be internal and external, developed in partnership with other groups.


Name of Organisation:
British Association of Teachers of the Deaf

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
BATOD promotes excellence in deaf education and is the sole professional association for teachers in the UK. BATOD produces a magazine 5 times per year and reference journal. Strong links are maintained between BATOD and government and voluntary agencies,  to contribute to policy development in this field and to represent deaf children and teachers.


Name of Organisation:
British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) - Extend Programme

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Offers 40 paid placements per year, in Programme Making (assistant broadcast journalists, researchers, production assistants, runners and new media) and Programme Support (finance assistants, IT support, marketing/publicity assistants). Placements can be based in London, Newcastle, Nottingham, Cardiff and Belfast, commencing from October onwards of each year.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Can offer advice and support re employment, eg interview techniques, information to employers.  Can provide a free information pack.

Other information:
Helpline: 0845 603 2001 - Offer fully confidential listening ear and support service Monday - Friday 10 - 12 and 2 - 4. Evening 7-9pm Monday - Thursday.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
To assist and support people with osteogenesis imperfecta.  Also provides information regarding all statutory and charitable services which they are entitled to, including support available in the workplace.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
If students with disabilities experience discriminatory practice during the recruitment process, the network can help.  However, the main emphasis of the organisation is on working with employers to raise awareness.


Address(1):
Advice Service Capability Scotland (ASCS)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
ASCS offers general help on disability matters, and specific help for people with cerebral palsy.  It is available to anyone with an interest in cerebral palsy or disability issues.

Other information:
A library of over 2500 resources.  Phone, call in, write or e-mail.  Also arranges home visits.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Encourages people with facial disfigurement and society to deal positively with facial disfigurement.  Offers advice and information and has a range of booklets for sale.  Employment guides for employers, recruitment and clients.


Contact Name(s):
Kate Moran (Equal Opportunities Officer)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Information and advice for people with a disability who are thinking of becoming or are physiotherapists.

Other information:
The profession welcomes applicants with disabilities and has a long history of workers with visual impairment.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Support,  advice and information re living and working with diabetes.  Produced booklet "Diabetes and Employment" (£1.30 plus postage and package) which includes information on the Disability Discrimination Act, disclosing diabetes and the impact of diabetes in the workplace.

Other information:
Freephone to order publications - 0800 585088.


Name of Organisation:
DIAL (Disablement Information and Advice Lines)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
DIAL (Disablement Information and Advice Line) provides information and advice covering all aspects of living and working with a disability.  There are over 100 DIAL offices across the country.  Their website gives details of any vacancies at the DIAL headoffice.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
The Disability Initiative is part of the Prince's Trust, an organisation which helps young people between 18-30 years old to set up in business and succeed.  The Initiative's aim is to promote self employment amongst young people with disabilities.  Regional disability managers help by providing:  one-to-one counselling for anyone considering setting up a business, assistance in developing an idea and/or business plan, help in planning market research and a list of other relevant contacts for funding training and advice in the specific business area.


Contact Name(s):
Sue McCorkindale - Educational Guidance Officer

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
DWM offers advice and information on disability issues.  Advice is also available for disabled students in higher education.  DWM administers the Professor Marsland Bursary for disabled students in higher education.  It is open to any part-time undergraduate or full or part-time postgraduate whose home address is in the West Midlands.  £500 is available to help with the additional costs of being a disabled student.

Other information:
Minicom 0121 414 1188.  Pinpoint magazine on-line at www.pinpointonline.co.uk


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
This is an on-line careers training package for disabled students and graduates, designed to help people improve their employment opportunities and career management skills.  It also addresses specific careers within the communication industry including advertising, public relations, publishing and sales and marketing.

Other information:
The package also has versions in Greek and Swedish.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
The Employers' Forum on Disability is a national employers' organisation focused on disability.

A list of their members is available from the above address.

Other information:
Emphasis is more on support for employers.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
END works with employers to help recruit, retain and develop workers with a disability.  It can provide a list of all employers who are members of the network by contacting the organisation directly.


Name of Organisation:
Employment Opportunities for People with Disabilities

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
This organisation aims to help people with all types of disability, seen and unseen, to break down the barriers of disability and find employment.  It has links with major employers and can make introductions where appropriate.  It operates throughout the UK via a network of Regional Centres. It provides assistance with identifying abilities, vacancy searches, preparing CVs/applications, preparing for interview and obtaining aids and equipment.  Services offered to people with disabilities are free of charge.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Management development opportunity for graduate calibre people with a disability.  Has approximately 10 placements a year.  It is a one year programme involving two six month work placements and skills training with a paid salary.

Other information:
Text 'phone: 020 7619 7187.  Although set up by Scope (focussing on people with cerebral palsy) Fast-Track is open to people with any disability.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Offers placements for 1 or 2 weeks in departments including personnel, administration and programmes.  Placements are designed to fit in with student's interests.  GMTV provides 2 six week placements in the summer through Workable.  Students are advised to go through Workable for these placements.  For shorter one or two week placements students can go directly to GMTV.  There are no fixed numbers or timings of the shorter placements.


Name of Organisation:
Group for Solicitors with Disabilities (GSD) - The Law Society

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
The GDS aims to achieve equality of opportunity for people with disabilities whether they are solicitors, would-be-solicitors, clients or members of the general public.  Work includes:  representing the interests of all solicitors with disabilities, addressing the barriers faced by students with disabilities, sitting or studying for the professional examinations and seeking employment in the profession.

Other information:
The GSD prefers personal contact from the student/graduate.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Contacts university/college and tells them about head injury and how it affects people.  Would guide head injured person towards PACT (Job Centre) and/or Rehab (Scotland).

Other information:
Headway (Ayrshire) currently has an experienced FE Careers Adviser as a member of their group who would be more than happy to assist with any enquiry.


Name of Organisation:
Headway National Head Injuries Association

Contact Name(s):
Marian Carey (Information Services Manager)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Offers information and advice for people with head injuries, including employment issues. There are over 100 local groups and branches across the country.  Headway has produced two booklets relating to head injury and employment.  "Returning to Work after Head Injury: A Help Yourself Guide",and  "Preparing for Work after Head Injury"  which looks at work placements and vocational training.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
IDEAS+ is an independent recruitment agency that assists people with disabilities to find work.  It is a professional organisation and its aim is to find the best person for the job.  It provides expertise and advice to  employers of job seekers.  Services include career planning, help with looking for work, information on benefits and gaining further qualifications.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Supports and advises people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and Post-Viral Fatigue Syndrome (PVFS).  Can also give information on employment for people with these disabilities.


Name of Organisation:
MIND (NAMH National Association for Mental Health)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Information support and advice (including advocacy, employment and training scheme) for anyone experiencing mental distress.  The website  includes information on employing people with mental health problems.  Information leaflets include: "Surviving Working Life:  The MIND guide to staying well in the workplace" focussing on paid employment, and looks at, amongst other issues, how to keep your job after developing mental ill health and the person's rights.  Costs £1  from MIND.

Other information:
MIND Infoline: 0845 766 0163.  There are 220 local centres - details can be found on the website.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Support, advice and information for people with Multiple Sclerosis.  The information booklet: "A Guide to Staying in Work"  aims to help people with Multiple Sclerosis consider some of the potential employment issues they may face and how these can be dealt with.

Other information:
Support line: 0808 800 8000.   There are local branches of the MS Society across the country.


Name of Organisation:
National Assoc. for Colitis & Crohn's Disease (NACC)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Information line can give help and advice over the telephone.  There is also a range of leaflets including issues for people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and employment.  Website includes a Student Information Sheet addressing the transition to life as a university student and the implications for this.


Name of Organisation:
National Association for Deaf People (NAD)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
It has campaigned for full equality for Deaf and hearing impaired people and parents of deaf children.  Services available include:  job coach service in Dublin (individual support for entry into employment), Deaftech (technical and non-technical information on deaf issues and equipment), sign language classes and deaf awareness training.

Other information:
Resource centres in Kilkenny,Wexford and Letterkenny.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Offers support information and advice about autism and Asperger's Syndrome, including Autism Helpline, publications and information re employment and transition into employment.  Website contains details of current vacancies at NAS and informative 'frequently asked questions'.


Name of Organisation:
National Co-ordinator for Students with Disabilities

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
General higher educational advice for students


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
The NDAF supports and advises disabled individuals wishing to enter the art world, for example on freelance work and self-employment. It also promotes and supports innovative disability arts events which encourage the participation of disabled people. Website includes current vacancies at NDAF and gives details of various artists with disabilities and the work they do.

Other information:
Minicom 0191 261 2237.  The NDAF maintains a European database of arts and disability organisations.


Address(1):
The Information and Education Department

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Offers assessment, training, rehabilitation and long term care for people with epilepsy.  The Information and Education Service provides help, advice and resources.   Website includes information on epilepsy and employment.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Advice, information and support for people with schizophrenia and their families, friends and professionals.  General enquiries cover rehabilitation, employment, legal matters and grants.

Other information:
Advice Line No. 020 8974 6814  10 - 1pm Monday -Friday.


Name of Organisation:
NTDI (National Training and Development Institute)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Provides training programmes for educational, vocational and personal development.  After training NTDI provides both formal and informal support to ensure ease of progression into employment. A wide range of training is offered in Media and in Sound Engineering, as well as employer based training.

Other information:
Job retention services:  NTDI offers programmes to help the employer manage the impact of disability in the workplace whilst supporting the employee in an early and effective return to work.  Telephone 00 353 1 230 1682.  

Home Link delivers programmes designed to enable people with agoraphobia and/or social phobia to access learning at home.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Outset has training centres in London, Manchester, Liverpool (opening shortly) Luton and Wolverhampton where it provides employment and training in IT and Business Administration up to NVQ Level 3.  It can also assist in building self confidence and work preparation skills.  Refresher courses are also available for those who might not need/want NVQ qualifications or for those who want general personal development.  Homebased training can be arranged.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
The great @ Papworth project (Graduate Recruitment Employment and Training) offers salaried employment and training to graduates with disabilities who have an IT degree or related discipline and wish to work within the IT field.

Other information:
Students/Graduates must be based in the counties of Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, Herts, Essex and Peterborough.


Address(1):
Disability Times Trust, 5th Floor West Wing

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Pathways to Publishing is a nine month employment training scheme for disabled people.  Based in West London and Southwark in conjunction with London College of Printing, Disability Times Trust and Disability Times Newspaper.  Scheme and training includes desk top publishing and journalism, 'hands on' work experience, personal development, mentoring, and developing a portfolio of published work.

Other information:
Candidates spend half the week at Disability Times Trust and half the week at London College of Printing.  Initially funded for one year, the first intake finished in June 2000.  Pathways to Publishing is currently awaiting confirmation of further funding to continue with scheme.


Name of Organisation:
Prospects Employment Consultancy (Autism and Asperger Syndrome)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
This is a specialised employment scheme for people with autism and Asperger's Syndrome.  People must be referred by the Disability Employment Adviser, via the job centre.  Services provided include work tasters, liaising with employers,  student support scheme and work preparation  (i.e. job search, interview technique, help with CVs, support in the workplace).

Other information:
At present, this scheme only operates in London, Glasgow and  Sheffield.


Name of Organisation:
RADAR (The Royal Association for Disability and Rehabilitation)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
RADAR publishes numerous fact sheets, books and guides, runs an information and advice service, and works alongside around 500 national and local organisations around the UK.  Publications include guides for disabled people on getting into work and self employment.

Other information:
Website lists current vacancies at RADAR.  Minicom:  0207 250 4119
Monday-Thursday 10am-4pm Fridays closed. Publications are limited


Name of Organisation:
Repetitive Strain Injury Association (RSI)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Advice and information on RSI and strategies to cope, including strategies in the workplace.

Other information:
Freephone Helpline 0800 018 5012, Monday, Wednesday and  Friday 11am - 5pm.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
The aim is to help visually impaired people to find, keep or progress in suitable jobs.  The RNIB helps individuals get the skills necessary to compete in the job market, and raises awareness amongst employers about the contribution people with sight problems can make.  The RNIB offers visually impaired graduates the opportunity to receive details of vacancies at RNIB establishments across the country.  Telephone 01733 375209 and the name will be placed on a mailing list.

Other information:
Local Network Centre:

RNIB Education & Employment Network Centre, 4th Floor, Crown House, 10-12 James Street, Liverpool L2 7PQ.  
Tel: 0151 255 0562, 
Fax: 0151 236 0930


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
A website and information line to give advice, support and information to employers, employment professionals and employees about the employment of people who are blind or partially sighted.

Other information:
VISAGE = Visual Impairments and Standards in Adult Guidance and Employment.  This is a European Social Fund (ESF) funded project in collaboration with RNIB.  The sole purpose to improve prospects of unemployed visually impaired people.  Website has access to "Choices - Update" quarterly newsletter (started July 99) covering issues re employment and education.  Also has useful 'discussion board'  -  used to discuss issues relating to the employment of people who are blind or partially sighted.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Provides information, advice and practical help by supporting visually impaired students and potential students on physiotherapy courses across the country.  The Support Service can also offer advice to universities.

Other information:
Resource Centre at the University of East London, Romford Road, London, E15 4LZ.  Tel. 020 8985 4079


Name of Organisation:
RNIB Scotland - Employment & Learning Services

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Contacts blind and partially sighted students in all universities in Scotland and records kept regarding types of course, etc.  Employment advice also provided to graduates and students.  Works closely with Job Centres on employment.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Services offered include:  provision of equipment, employment and careers advice, support/advice provided by counsellors and  communication services and training.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
A range of information including current vacancies, working with D/deaf people, working from home,  Disability Discrimination Act and employment.  Website includes vacancies at RAD, other organisations of and for the D/deaf community and vacancies targetting D/deaf people.


Name of Organisation:
Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID)

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Support, information and advice on employment issues and specialist equipment.

Other information:
Information Line No. 0808 808 0123. Currently running the Employment and Learning Projects (via regional offices), which address inequalities in the job market for D/deaf people.  Information line can also be written to at the Head Office address.  Users can also call in, in person, to headquarters where a signer is available.  RNID is also aware of grants for academic study into deaf-related areas - particularly tinnitus, cochlear implants and  age-related hearing loss.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Provides information on all forms of mental illness and offers support to people with mental health difficulties, their friends and families and professionals. SANE can also provide advice about mental illness and employment.

Other information:
Also run SANELINE (Helpline) 0845 767 8000 every day 12 midday to 2 a.m.  SANE is based in London and has satellite offices in Macclesfield and Bristol.  SANELINE is always on the look out for volunteers to operate the helpline.  Volunteers need to live within a 25 mile radius of London, Bristol or Macclesfield and do not need any specific educational qualifications.  They are required to be non-judgmental, have empathy with those affected by mental illness, be willing to work one 4 hour shift per week on the helpline and be prepared to go through SANELINE's thorough initial training and probation and subsequently to attend an on-going programme.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Can offer help, advice and information re employment for people with  cerebral palsy.  Also has supported employment schemes.

Other information:
Helpline No. 0808 800 3333.  Also run Fast Track Graduate Management Scheme.  See information under Fast Track in the Work Experience and Employment Schemes Section.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Offers advice, support and information for people who are deafblind or have associated disabilities.  Also supports people with  Ushers syndrome.  See Sense West Midlands for regional project centred on employment.  Website includes vacancies at Sense.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Currently running a regional project which identifies deaf/blind people seeking employment.  Provides support during careers guidance and planning.  Enables deaf/blind people to access vocational qualifications.  Sets up and supports work, job placements and 'real' jobs.  Provides support and training for professionals working with deafblind people, employers and work colleagues.

Other information:
This is a joint project under the heading of Staffordshire Employment Development Project, jointly run by Staffordshire County Council and Sense.


Contact Name(s):
Tricia Golinski - Information Resource Officer

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
The Shaw Trust provides rehabilitation, training, work tasters and employment support  for disabled people.  It also supports and advises employers in the employment of people with a disability.  It works closely with Social Services, Health Services, government departments and voluntary sector partners to help disabled people find employment.   Shaw Trust has details for current vacancies within the organisation at http://www.shaw-trust.org.uk/vacancy.html.


Name of Organisation:
Skill Scotland: National Bureau for Students with Disabilities

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Skill promotes opportunities for young people and adults with any kind of disability in post-16 education, training and employment across the UK.  Information service, and publications.  Skill Scotland runs a volunteer scheme called ‘Disability Equality for Volunteering in Scotland’. The project aims to provide opportunities and support for people with disabilities to volunteer for Skill Scotland with the aim of developing their work based skills and  improving their employment prospects.

Other information:
Skill freephone: 0800 328 5050.  Textphone:  0800 068 2422

Information service - Mon -Thu 1.30 4.30


Name of Organisation:
SKILL: National Bureau for Students with Disabilities

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Skill promotes opportunities for people with disabilities in education and employment.  Advice comes in the form of a telephone and e-mail information line along with numerous publications and information leaflets, including disclosing disability, employment service provision for disabled people and careers advice.  The "Into…" series of booklets looks at entering teaching, science and engineering, law, architecture and art as a disabled person.  The website has a downloadable publication entitled "Get That Job" specifically aimed at jobseekers with disabilities - www.skill.org.uk/getthatjob.

Other information:
Information service: freephone(voice) 0800 328 5050 - freephone (text) 0800 068 2422.
Main office: voice/text 020 7450 0620


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
The society aims to help new visually impaired lawyers into the profession, enable visually impaired lawyers stay within the profession and provide relevant information in Braille and on tape.  It also acts as a pool of expertise within the profession.  Advice is offered in various forms depending on what is required e.g. liaising with prospective employers.

Other information:
The society prefers the initial contact to be written.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Workable assist disabled students and graduates with disability-related employment issues through one-to-one advice and support, a national programme of seminars and insight events, and by establishing and supporting work experience placements. Workable also works with universities and employers to disseminate expertise and further best practice.

Other information:
There are regional offices in Reading, Manchester and Newcastle. Minicom 020 7680 0007.


Contact Name(s):
Saskia Van Vliet - Supported Employment Officer

What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Workbridge promotes employment oppportunities for visually impaired people.  There are three main services: supported employment (offers grants to employers, job search, career choice and  technical advice);  open employment support (CVs etc);  self employment (help with business planning, obtaining grants, etc).

Other information:
Contact for Open Employment Support is Beverley Greenfield - telephone 020 8838 4384.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Disability Wales aims to empower disabled people and develop career opportunities. Services include - information, training and advice on self employment and routes into employment.

Other information:
Opening hours 9am-1pm 2pm-5pm Monday-Friday.
Help line:0800 731 6282


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Waltham Forest QEST is an employment support team for residents of Waltham Forest who have experienced mental health difficulties. It is part of the Richmond Fellowship work scheme and offers work preparation workshops on skills identification, work experience, CVs and application forms, interview skills, confidence raising and assertiveness training. Employment Advisors provide individual support and guidance to help people access employment, training and education.

Other information:
QEST projects are also located in Aylesbury, Barnet, Brent, Cambridge, Enfield, Peterborough, Swindon, Stoke, Willesden and Wandsworth.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
CareersEssex works in partnership with local agencies, organisations and businesses to guide young people to make informed choices about their education, employment and future career paths. They also offer careers information, advice and guidance to adults who are looking for a career change or returning to work and to assist employers who are looking to recruit young people.


What is the nature of the service/advice provided?:
Provides support and advice to disabled people seeking employment. The Employment Support Service offers assessment and progression planning, careers advice, job search preparation and employment rights awareness.

Other information:
Employment and Training 020 8861 9929
Information 020 8861 9927
Minicom 020 8861 4547


