Getting it right for Disabled Apprentices

The report explores the experiences of young disabled people who are using, or have used, apprenticeship schemes into employment. It shares what works well:

If you want to attract, support, and keep Disabled apprentices, here’s some of the things you can do.

Training providers

  • Develop and change your curriculum to make it easier for Disabled apprentices to get the training they need
  • Create networking opportunities for apprentices so they gain insight into other jobs and different departments
  • Allocate a ‘go to’ person for the entire apprenticeship journey so individuals know who to approach for support and have someone they can confide in
  • Ensure staff understand the principles and requirements of reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act (2010)
  • Ensure training schedules are clear and whether learning and training sessions are online or face to face
  • Familiarise yourselves with the additional learning support funding available for apprentices with learning
    difficulties or disabilities.

Employers

  • Have a mentor or dedicated support person for apprentices, particularly at the start of an apprenticeship
  • Offer flexible work arrangements tailored to individual needs, including part-time apprenticeships
  • Be prepared to support Disabled apprentices with applications to the Access to Work scheme
  • Have a streamlined process to put reasonable adjustments in place quickly, so Disabled apprentices can focus on getting on with the job
  • Promote a culture where apprentices feel safe to talk about their disability and support needs, including conversations about mental health
  • Make yourselves available for work experience placements to give Disabled young people an insight into
    the workplace

Read more here.