Disabled workers caught in a catch 22 situation

Nov 25 2007

by Pauline Holt, Sunday Sun

SUNDERLAND UNIVERSITY graduate Joe Ayton has found himself in a Catch 22 situation since completing his degree in film and media this January.

He cannot find paid work because his employers want work experience and he cannot gain work experience because his costs for travel and personal care are not provided unless the work is paid.

Joe, who is vice chair of the Newcastle United Disabled Supporters Association, is, however, working one day a week at Able 2, Percy Hedley’s Adult Day Centre in Forest Hall, North Tyneside, developing a DVD archive of the school thanks to the support of his mum, who drives him from their home in Wylam, Northumberland.

Joe, 24, who has cerebral palsy and is a wheelchair user, said: “As soon as you get a job, Access to Work covers all costs. I would immediately get money for someone to help with personal needs and transport but, because mine is voluntary work, that doesn’t apply.

“The Government is again pushing for more and more people to come off incapacity benefit and return to work, but if you have got no experience, it’s difficult to find work.”

Now, with Able 2, hopefully Joe will have that all-important experience.

But what Disability North would like to see is more mainstream employers offering a helping hand.

Spokeswoman Lucy Hudson said: “The International Day of Disabled People is on December 3, and its theme of ‘decent work for people with impairments’, is a great opportunity for Disability North to celebrate the inclusion of disabled people in society.”