Retail training at Shaw Trust in Folkestone
Workstep enables individuals to work effectively in a job by identifying their needs and providing the necessary support to fit their requirements.
For many people Workstep is the stepping stone into full, unsupported employment. When in employment individuals have to come off benefits in order to receive the same wage and terms and conditions as their non-disabled colleagues who do the same or similar work.
How can you qualify?
If you are disabled as defined by the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 and your disablility means that you face significant barriers to working - and other forms of support are considered to be inappropriate, then you may qualify. You will also need to be either:
- On Incapacity Benefit and/or National insurance Credit (including severe Disablilty Allowance and Income Support); or
- On Jobseekers Allowance (JSA) and/or National Insurance Credits only for six months or more; or
- On JSA and/or National Insurance credits for less than six months but on Incapacity Benefit before claiming JSA; or
- If you have been supported before and need to return to the programme within two years.
You may also be eligible if you are currently in work but at risk of losing your job as a result of a disability or you have recently left education and have demonstrated a need for support in work.
Shaw Trust works very closely with many major employers to ensure that you can gain the employment you desire. We also work very closely with you to ensure that your job matches your needs by:
- Designing an individual development plan and support package to help you make the most of your potential. This may include job tasters or work experience, access to learning and training, as well as job coaching or training (should this be necessary)
- Reviewing your progress regularly and updating your development plan to show how you have grown and gained the skills you need.
- Working with you and your employer to assist you to progress into mainstream employment, and
- Working closely with the Disability Employment Adviser at the Job Centre to arrange any other support you may need to assist you into work, for example Access to Work funding.
To see how Shaw Trust can help you go to Finding a job or personal development.
