Project aims to develop progression routes out of low pay for Deaf employees in London
deafPLUS is delighted to announce a groundbreaking two-year project, funded by Trust for London, which focusses on the career development and advancement of Deaf employees who are stuck in low paying jobs.
By working with employers, we will support deaf employees across London, with the aim of helping them to improve their pay and career prospects. We will also working to raise employer awareness of how they can get unlock their deaf staff’s potential through, for example, use of assistive technology or workplace buddying schemes.
This innovative project will work closely with store managers and HR teams to ensure that deaf employees receive the same career progression opportunities as their colleagues, including access to training, information about career opportunities and are supported in building their confidence.
At present, 67% of deaf employees nationwide are on national minimum wage – currently set at £6.50 and rising to £6.70 from the 1st October 2015.
The current London Living wage is £9.15 and the national rate is £7.85.
Project Manager Jason Barnett said: “Since 2002 deafPLUS has worked closely with London employers to find jobs for approximately 380+ deaf clients. In doing so we have been able to significantly improve the lives of their deaf workers. However it is sadly the case that too many of deaf employees find themselves stuck on the first rung of the career ladder. This new project will provide a helping hand, ensuring more of them can move up to the next rung or beyond.
Jason also appealed for deaf employees to respond to our survey on employment issues. This will help to inform his work on this issue. Please click: here
Contact Details
Jason Barnett – deafPLUS London Career Progression Project Manager
deafPLUS, Key Close, Whitechapel, London, E1 4HG
Office: 020 7790 8478
SMS: 07581 675 422
Skype: deafplus1971
