RNID, the UKís largest charity representing the needs of 9 million deaf and hard of hearing people, is exhibiting at this yearís Employment Week in Brussels (April 26th-28th) and is showcasing the results of its together IT works initiative - a three year partnership project with Barclays PLC, launched in 2001.
The together IT works project was established to provide up to 1,000 accessible IT and work skills training courses for deaf and hard of hearing people in the UK, to improve their employability. This groundbreaking initiative, which ends in 2004, is an excellent example of best practice in harnessing technology, education, and training to tackle unemployment and close the skills gap amongst this community.
RNID are encouraging EU members to make the needs of deaf and hard of hearing people an explicit aspect of their employment strategy. Just as the needs of women returning to work and older workers are being addressed, the needs of people with disabilities should not be overlooked.
Mark Chacksfield, Director of RNIDís Employment, Training and Skills Service (ETSS), said:
ìDeafness and hearing loss affects one in seven of the UK population and is often regarded as a ëhiddení disability. RNID wants to share our experience with helping deaf and hard of hearing people overcome barriers to training and employment, by addressing their needs and fulfilling those of the labour market.î
ì together IT works has been a highly successful catalyst for positive change and we hope this it will serve as a model that can be replicated in other European countries.î
Barclays provided 1.4 million through its community investment programme to fund together IT works over three years. This commitment is part of the bankís on-going support for people in communities.
Matt Sparkes, Senior Sponsorship Manager at Barclays, said:
ìWe are proud of the success of the together IT works project and our partnership with RNID. Barclays is committed to supporting people with disabilities and making a positive and sustainable difference to communities.î
RNID will be hosting a project showcase at the Employment Week Conference, on Monday 26th April at 2pm in B3. Further information will also be available at their stand - 505.
RNID and Barclays Champion IT and Work Skills Training for Deaf People in Europe
EU member states are being called upon to proactively challenge barriers to employment faced by deaf and hard of hearing people in the community.