Life after school can be an overwhelming and uncertain period for many young people. The abundance of information available can make it challenging to navigate the path towards a fulfilling career. However, there is support available to assist young individuals with disabilities in preparing for work and planning their pathway to employment. In this blog post, we will explore the different services that assist the transition and enhance the success of young individuals, providing a comprehensive and holistic approach to their journey into the workforce.
Understanding School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES):
School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) is an initiative under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) that aims to empower young individuals with disabilities to enter the workforce. SLES provides funding for up to two years, depending on the participant’s employment goals and individual circumstances. It takes into account reports and assessments provided during the planning conversation. The program offers various pathways, including further education or training, apprenticeships or traineeships, independent job seeking, volunteering, or community participation. By accessing SLES, participants gain valuable support and resources to develop the skills necessary for successful employment and make informed choices about their career pathways.
Whilst SLES provide valuable support, recent reports (NDIS 2018), have highlighted the shortcomings of the SLES program, in areas such as limited focus on post-employment support, concerns about the availability and adequacy of work experience, as well as limited duration and funding available for participants. Therefore, finding the right SLES provider which can address these concerns and provide comprehensive support is essential. We have put together some questions that parents may want to consider asking before choosing their SLES provider at the end of this post.
Example questions to ask SLES service providers:
- Can you provide examples of successful outcomes for previous participants in the SLES program?
- How does the SLES program tailor its support to the individual needs and goals of participants?
- What work experience opportunities are available through the program?
- How does the SLES program involve employers in supporting participants’ transition to work?
- What types of ongoing support are provided to participants once they secure employment?
- How does the SLES program communicate and involve parents in the support process?
- Can you provide references or connect us with other parents whose children have participated in the SLES program?
Asking questions enables parents to make an informed decision and ensure that the SLES program aligns with their child’s unique aspirations for a successful transition into the workforce. You can learn more about School Leaver Employment Supports here: https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/working-provider/school-leaver-employment-supports
Outside of the SLES program, the NDIS also has a list of supported employment providers that are registered as NDIS providers, Australian Disability Enterprises (ADE): ADEs are social enterprises that provide employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.. These enterprises offer a wide range of work options, including packaging, assembly, manufacturing, gardening, and cleaning. ADEs focus on providing meaningful employment, skill development, and workplace support, creating inclusive work environments that promote the independence and well-being of individuals with disabilities. You can filter within the provider list by type of registration groups – ADEs are listed as ‘Specialised Supported Employment’. https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/working-providers/find-registered-provider
Other Employment Service Options for Persons with Disabilities in Australia
For individuals not NDIS funded, it’s important to be aware of other employment service options available for individuals with disabilities in Australia. These services cater to the unique needs and challenges, providing support and resources to maximize their employment opportunities. Here are some notable employment service options:
- Disability Employment Services (DES)
DES is a government-funded program that assists individuals with disabilities in finding and maintaining employment. NDIS participants have the option to roll over into the DES program after the 2 years if they still require supports. DES offers a range of services, including job search support, vocational training, on-the-job support, and assistance with workplace modifications or accommodations. DES providers work closely with participants to identify their goals, strengths, and support needs, facilitating the process of job placement and ongoing support. Learn more about Disability Employment Services here: https://www.dese.gov.au/disability-employment-services
- Supported Employment Programs:
Supported employment programs are offered by various organizations and community groups. These programs aim to provide individuals with disabilities with supported and customized employment opportunities. They offer job placement assistance, on-the-job training, ongoing support, and job coaching to help individuals succeed in their chosen roles. They often work in collaboration with employers to promote inclusive hiring practices and create supportive work environments. Discover community and NFT organisation here: https://buyability.org.au/find/
- Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Vocational rehabilitation services assist individuals with disabilities in developing the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to enter or return to the workforce. These services offer a range of supports, including career counselling, vocational assessments, skills training, and job placement assistance. Vocational rehabilitation providers work closely with participants to develop personalized plans that address their unique strengths, interests, and support needs, ultimately helping them achieve their employment goals. Discover Vocational rehabilitation options here:
https://inclusionrehab.com.au/what-to-expect-from-vocational-rehabilitation/
The Role of Occupational Therapy (OT) in Transition:
Occupational Therapy can play a vital role in supporting individuals during their transition from school to the workforce by providing interventions that enhance participants’ functional abilities and promote independence in the workplace. For example, participants may work on self-care skills, such as dressing, grooming, and personal hygiene, to ensure they are confident and capable of managing their own self-care routines. Sensory processing skills can also be addressed, helping participants effectively process sensory information and navigate sensory-rich work environments. Social skills, including effective verbal and non-verbal communication, active listening, and teamwork, are essential for workplace success and can be improved through targeted interventions.
Transitioning from school to the workforce can be a daunting task, but there are available support services out there providing assistance for a successful transition into the workforce, and ultimately empowering them to achieve their career goals. Feel free to contact us on hello@occupationaltherapy.com.au or 9913 3823, if you or your child require more information or for support to access employment pathways.
