Employment

People with Down’s syndrome have an immense range of qualities and skills, and we know that lots of people with Down’s syndrome who want to work, don’t have a paid job.

In fact, in Scotland less than 7% of people with learning disabilities are in paid work compared with 74% of the general population.

In a survey, we asked our members what needs to happen, they told us they wanted:

• more employment opportunities 
• more support and training, such as job coaching
• jobs and training tailored to the individual
• Down’s Syndrome Scotland to raise awareness with Government and to push for more support and encouragement for employers 

We want to partner with employers across Scotland and identify great opportunities for people with Down’s syndrome.  We know the economic outlook is challenging for many businesses right now, but people with Down’s syndrome should not be overlooked.

It’s good for business to employ someone with Down’s syndrome – they offer a wide range of skills and sought-after qualities and employers tell us that they have a really positive impact on their organisational health, such as improved staff morale and customer perception, which enhances their reputation as an inclusive employer.

As we face the challenges of a new working world, the qualities of kindness, compassion, loyalty and determination are exactly what every workplace needs right now.

Please join our Movement For Change and #TakeAStepForward with us to create more employment opportunities for people with Down’s syndrome living in Scotland.

Get in touch at takeastepforward@dsscotland.org.uk to discuss how you can get involved.