Employment (People with Learning Disabilities)

HC Deb 15 September 2003 vol 410 cc561-3W

Paul Holmes

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many adults with a learning disability were in unpaid employment in England for each year since 1997; what percentage this represents of people with a learning disability known to social services; and if he will make a statement. [127125]

Maria Eagle

The information is not available.

Paul Holmes

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will list the Government schemes intended to help adults with a learning disability move into paid employment; and if he will make a statement. [127126]

Maria Eagle

Adults with learning disabilities are able to access the full range of services provided by Jobcentre Plus. In addition Jobcentre Plus offers a range of programmes specifically tailored to the needs of disabled customers. These are, Access to Work, Work Preparation, Workstep and New Deal for Disabled People. These programmes are all aimed to help customers with disabilities, including learning disabilities, move into paid employment.

Access to these programmes is through Disability Employment Advisers (DEAs), who are based in Jobcentre and Jobcentre Plus offices. DEAs work closely with employers, employees and disabled people looking for work.

Workstep is the employment programme most suitable for many people with learning disabilities. Workstep provides tailored support for people with disabilities who have more complex barriers to finding and keeping work. It provides the support and opportunity for people to progress to unsupported employment where this is the right option for the individual. Of the 21,500 people accessing support through Workstep, 37 per cent. have a learning disability.