Supporting People with sight loss to make the most of their lives RNIB Scotland Supporting People with sight loss to make the most of their lives Raising awareness Campaigning on a range of issues Support training, education and learning 1

The need for Transitions support Educational attainment was good, but is it now? Positive outcomes from school Drop-out, or approach us late Unemployment at 93 per cent 2

Looking to the Future Our pilot project Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeenshire 15 to 25 2015 to 2018 3

Year One 2015/16 Who have we worked with Our steering groups Where are our young people? “Outcomes”

What are the Barriers? What are the specific barriers for young blind and partially sighted people in education and employment?

Examples Dan (24) spent years working as a volunteer in youth clubs but was unable to secure a paid position. With the support of RNIB Scotland, Dan got some coaching in interview skills, as his main issue was selling himself short. As a result of this input, Dan has a paid job as a Youth Worker for a highly regarded Youth Organisation. He thoroughly enjoys his role and is hoping to develop this further as a career. Priya (21) had always been in an Additional Supports Needs environment, throughout her career as a student. She had a keen interest in radio and was very keen to pursue further study, which would only be possible in a mainstream educational setting. Through RNIB Scotland, Priya was able to build up her confidence for this transition by visiting college campuses and meeting Disability Support staff. Priya is now finishing her first year of an NC in Radio and is looking forward to moving on to the HNC course. She is hoping to have a career as a DJ in the future. Alex (17) wanted to do a course in journalism but did not get involved in anything during his time at school which would help him be a successful competitor for getting into such courses. With the help of RNIB, Alex did a short work placement at his local newspaper and was encouraged to write internet blogs to help him move forward. Alex now has a place to study HNC media at college which he is looking forward to and is happy that he has chosen the correct career path.

Employment Toolkit Who is it for? Why is it needed? How it is used

What does the toolkit tell us? Level 1: Work ready Level 2a: Nearly work ready (closer) Level 2b: Nearly work ready (further) Level 3: Longer term support needed Level 4: Foundation work required before employment services

Contact Us jennifer.robertson@rnib.org.uk andy.swann@rnib.org.uk 0141 648 8518