HC Deb 10 May 1977 vol 931 cc475-6W
Mr. Ashley

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what action he is taking to increase knowledge among careers officers of what can be achieved by deaf school leavers in further education given adequate support.

Mr. John Grant

All careers offices seek to obtain knowledge of further education opportunities and to advise young people of the employment implications. Those careers officers who specialise in helping handicapped young people including those who are deaf, receive appropriate in-service training, and systematically exchange experiences with colleagues engaged in this work. They draw in particular on assistance and advice from social workers and education service staff with expertise in helping deaf young people.

Mr. Ashley

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what research is being undertaken into discovering jobs suitable for highly intelligent deaf school leavers with poor communication; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. John Grant

The employment services try to help young people to overcome their difficulties and to obtain jobs which accord with their interests, aspirations and abilities. I acknowledge that some deaf young people are not employed to the full extent of their capabilities and potential. I am not aware of any current research into this problem, but my Department is studying the results of a survey of experience of careers guidance, employment and training recently conducted by the National Deaf Children's Society.