GO FOR IT!
Top Tips: tip top advice for jobseekers
AMELIA Peckham knows what it’s like looking for work when you have a disability.
After a life-altering spinal cord injury in 2006, she faced discrimination while seeking employment.
Amelia went on to co-found and run her own company, Cool Crutches & Walking Sticks, and push for better support for disabled workers.
Here, as official figures show nearly half of the UK’s registered disabled population are not in employment, she offers her top tips for disabled jobseekers.
Research accessibility policies:
Find out which companies have inclusive accessibility policies and initiatives. Look for Disability
Confident Employers, a Governmentbacked scheme that supports disabled people to find suitable employment. Understanding a company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion will help you make an informed decision about whether it’s the right fit for you.
Decide what to share: It’s essential to be comfortable with the information you share about your disability during the interview process. You have the right to choose what you disclose and when. Your qualifications and skills should always be the focus, and you should never feel pressured to reveal personal information.
Timing of disclosure: While it’s crucial to be honest about your disability if it’s relevant to the role, you are not obliged to disclose it during the initial interview. You can wait until you’ve received an offer before discussing your needs and any necessary accommodations. This way, you ensure your abilities and qualifications are fully taken into account.
Opt for in-person interviews: Although the ease of virtual interviews may be alluring, attending in person can be beneficial for both you and the employer. It allows everyone involved to better understand the potential accommodations required. Plus, this allows you to personally assess the accessibility of the building or office and work environment.
Commute considerations: Make sure the physical commute or hybrid working arrangements align with your needs. If you’re uncertain, try a test run of the journey. Or, depending on your level of mobility, perhaps consider if a fully remote role might be better suited to your needs.
Discussing accommodations after the offer: Once you’ve secured the job offer, this is an appropriate time to discuss any specific provisions you may need to perform your duties effectively. This could involve modifications to your workspace, flexible working hours, limiting inperson meeting time, or any other support that will help you thrive in your new role.