Bridging the Gap
Edge Group Scotland's Empowering Approach to Employment for Young Adults with Additional Support Needs (ASN)
The Employment Landscape for Disabled People in the UK
The UK Government’s recent publication of statistics on the employment of disabled people in the UK has once again highlighted the significant disparities between the employment rates of disabled and non-disabled individuals in the UK. While the overall employment rate for disabled people has increased, the gap remains substantial. This underscores the urgent need for innovative approaches and targeted support to help disabled individuals, particularly young adults with additional support needs who are leaving or have just left school, navigate the challenging complexities of the job market.
Missed Opportunities
By not including disabled individuals in their teams, employers are overlooking a significant reservoir of talent and commitment. By ignoring this valuable resource, businesses not only restrict their own growth but, often without realising it, also reinforce negative stereotypes and discrimination. Disabled individuals offer varied viewpoints, distinctive abilities, and a robust work ethic that can greatly benefit any workplace. By embracing inclusive hiring practices and implementing necessary accommodations, employers can tap into the full capabilities of this important workforce, leading to more diverse, fair, and ultimately thriving organisations.
Edge Group Scotland: A Source of Inspiration
We provide specialist support for young adults who are neurodivergent and/or have other additional support needs in Musselburgh, East Lothian and surrounding areas. Our comprehensive life skills and employability programmes are designed to empower young adults, wherever possible, to reach their full potential and ultimately, secure fulfilling employment opportunities. The programmes deliver opportunities to develop real-life independence while supporting them to mature in the world around them.
Key Features of Our Programmes
Person-Centred Approach: Recognising the unique needs, aspirations and strengths of each individual, tailoring our programmes to provide personalised support to young adults who are striving for independence, whatever that looks like for them.
Skills Development: Through a wide range of activities and workshop-style group sessions, participants develop essential life skills such as communication, problem-solving, and time management.
Work Readiness: We prepare young adults for the workplace by focusing on employability skills, independent travel training, CV writing, interview techniques, and job search strategies.
Supported Placements: Participants gain vital practical experience through supported volunteering placements in a variety of settings and industries, building confidence and industry knowledge.
Strong Partnerships: We work closely with local partner organisations to help them understand the challenges faced by those with additional support needs and how making small adjustments to ensure their workplaces are as inclusive as possible ensures employers have access to previously untapped talent!
Empowering Young Adults With Additional Support Needs
By providing tailored support and fostering a supportive environment, we are making a significant impact on the lives of school leavers and young adults with additional support needs. Through our programmes, participants gain the skills, confidence, and independence needed to reach their positive destinations and thrive in the workplace.
A Collaborative Approach
To address the challenges faced by disabled individuals in the job market, a collaborative approach is essential. By working closely with employers, government agencies, and other stakeholders, we aim to create a more inclusive and accessible workplace for as many young adults as possible in East Lothian, Edinburgh and beyond!
Conclusion
The UK Government’s report serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need to support disabled individuals in their pursuit of employment. By investing in the potential of young adults who are neurodivergent or have other additional support needs, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all. By being more open to a much more diverse and inclusive workforce, employers can benefit from a currently untapped workforce which has so much to offer.
Would you like to learn more about our programmes for young adults with additional support needs? Visit our Day Services page for information on our supported programmes and how to refer a young person to our services.