I applied for 1,000 jobs and didn’t get one offer

Deaf woman snubbed

A DEAF woman snubbed for 1,000 jobs in 18 months claims she is a victim of discrimination.

Kellie Wilson, 32, has been unable to hear since the age of four and has become a proficient lip reader.

She says some bosses have offered her phone interviews but have lost interest when she says she can only communicate with them via text, email or Skype.

Kellie is qualified at NVQ Level 2 in business administration and has worked in admin roles in the court, prison and probation services but has relied on temporary work and benefits since 2009.

She wants to find work in software development but has applied for jobs including bar work, housekeeping and pot washing.

Kellie said: “The only thing I cannot do is hear. My mind is sharp and I can lip read really well.

“I am currently being assessed for a cochlear implant.

“I feel as though I have to change who I am in the face of ignorance.”

Kellie from Middleton Tyas, North Yorks, spends at least five hours a day on applications. But she said: “I’ve lost out due to my deafness. I am being discriminated against and treated unfairly.”

James Taylor of disability charity Scope said: “Employers are shooting themselves in the foot by failing to tap into the huge pool of disabled talent.” WORK PLEA Kellie