SL - Employment Support Agency

This evidence-based practice focuses on providing individualized support, training, and accommodations to help people to achieve their employment goals and lead fulfilling lives as independent, active members of the workforce. The primary objective of Supported Employment is to enable individuals with to work in inclusive environments, earning competitive wages and benefits. This approach recognizes that every person, regardless of their needs, has unique strengths, skills, and talents that can contribute to the workforce and society as a whole.

Supported Employment services typically begin with a person-centered planning process, which involves identifying an individual's interests, skills, and career aspirations. This process helps to develop a customized employment plan that aligns with the individual's goals and strengths. Careers developers then work to identify potential employers and negotiate job roles that match the individual's skills and interests. Once a suitable job is secured, Supported Employment provides ongoing support to both the employee and the employer. This support may include on-the-job training, job coaching, and the development of natural supports within the workplace. Job coaches work closely with the employee to help them learn job duties, develop work-related skills, and navigate the social aspects of the work environment. As the employee gains confidence and proficiency, the level of support gradually decreases, promoting independence and self-sufficiency. Supported Employment also focuses on ensuring that individuals have access to the same opportunities for career advancement and professional development as their colleagues. This may involve working with employers to identify training opportunities, advocating for accommodations, and providing guidance on career progression. In addition to benefiting individuals with Special educational needs or disabilities, Supported Employment offers numerous advantages to employers. 

By tapping into a diverse talent pool, employers can foster a more inclusive and innovative workplace culture. Supported Employment providers often work closely with employers to identify and implement workplace accommodations, which can lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction for all employees. Research has consistently demonstrated the effectiveness of Supported Employment in improving employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities. Studies have shown that individuals who participate in Supported Employment programs are more likely to secure competitive employment, earn higher wages, and experience greater job satisfaction compared to those who receive traditional vocational rehabilitation services. Moreover, Supported Employment has been shown to have positive impacts on overall quality of life, as engaging in meaningful work can boost self-esteem, promote social inclusion, and contribute to better mental and physical health outcomes.   

Coaching Strategies: People with special educational needs or disabilities can get the coaching they need to reach their employment goals through Supported Employment. Individualization, skill development, and job success are the goals of these strategies, which are developed in response to each person's specific needs and strengths. Supported Employment makes use of a number of important coaching strategies, including:   

Job Coaching: This is the most common coaching strategy in Supported Employment. A job coach works directly with the individual at their place of employment to provide on-the-job training, support, and guidance. The job coach helps the individual learn job tasks, develop work-related skills, and navigate the social and cultural aspects of the workplace. As the individual gains proficiency and confidence, the job coach gradually fades their support to promote independence. 

Natural Supports: This strategy involves identifying and developing support networks within the individual's workplace. Natural supports can include co-workers, supervisors, or mentors who can provide guidance, feedback, and assistance as needed. The Supported Employment provider works to facilitate these relationships and help the individual build a network of ongoing support within their work environment. Customised Employment: This approach focuses on creating personalised job descriptions based on an individual's unique strengths, interests, and needs. The Supported Employment provider works with employers to identify job tasks that align with the individual's skills and negotiate job roles that capitalise on their abilities. This strategy can be particularly effective for individuals with more significant support needs. Systematic Instruction: This strategy involves breaking down job tasks into smaller, manageable steps and providing structured, step-by-step training. The job coach uses techniques such as verbal instruction, modelling, and visual aids to help the individual learn and master each step of the task. Systematic instruction is often used in conjunction with other coaching strategies to promote skill acquisition and independence. Assistive Technology: Supported Employment providers may incorporate assistive technology to help individuals with disabilities perform job tasks and navigate the workplace. This can include devices such as screen readers, voice recognition software, or adapted equipment. The job coach works with the individual to identify appropriate assistive technology solutions and provide training on their use. 

Social Skills Coaching: For individuals who may face challenges with social interactions or workplace etiquette, social skills coaching can be an essential component of Supported Employment. The job coach works with the individual to develop appropriate social skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution. This can involve role-playing, modelling, and providing feedback and guidance in real-world situations. 

Follow-Along Support: Supported Employment recognises that ongoing support may be necessary to help individuals maintain employment and navigate changes in the workplace. Follow-along support involves regular check-ins with the individual and their employer to monitor progress, address any challenges, and provide additional training or accommodations as needed.   

We use the following schemes to help fund the Supported Employment programmes:   

Access to Work: This is a government-funded program that provides financial support to individuals with disabilities and their employers. It covers the costs associated with workplace accommodations, assistive technology, and support workers, such as job coaches. Access to Work is administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and is available to those who are already employed or about to start a job. Access to Work funds may be able to support you with all special educational needs, disabilities and mental health issues.   

Local authorities: Many local authorities in the UK fund Supported Employment services as part of their adult social care responsibilities. These services are often delivered through partnerships with local disability organizations and charities. In some instances with the EHCP plan, this aspect funds the education side.   In conclusion, Supported Employment is a powerful approach that empowers individuals with disabilities to achieve their employment goals and lead fulfilling lives as valued members of the workforce. By providing individualized support, training, and accommodations, Supported Employment helps to break down barriers to employment and promote a more inclusive and diverse labour market. As society continues to recognise the untapped potential of individuals with special educational needs or disabilities, Supported Employment will play an increasingly vital role in fostering a more equitable and inclusive world of work.