Town pioneers job help for hidden disability sufferers

Until recently people with ‘hidden impairments’ such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Aspergers syndrome and dyslexia, were finding the form-filling and contact centres difficult to navigate.

Unsurprisingly they struggled to make progress.

Last year the Wakefield ADHD service, which is provided by South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, joined forces with the hidden impairments charity ADDept to help Jobcentre Plus look at how it could improve the customer service experience for all.

And in February 2010 the Hidden Impairment National Group (HING) was established.

This was attended by the Trust’s ADHD leader Dr Marios Adamou and disability specific organisations such as ADDept.

The main aim of the group was to improve the skills and knowledge of Jobcentre Plus staff.

The idea was to develop practical support tools to help them deliver an effective customer service experience.

Jobcentre Plus is a Government led service that provides a wide range of support on benefits, loans and grants and help with finding a job.

Last month Jobcentre Plus implemented Hidden Impairment Toolkit through their computer system nationwide to improve the service for people with such difficulties.

The Toolkit is designed to ensure staff, know how best to help somebody with a hidden impairment to ensure they can easily access help to seek employment.

Dr Adamou said: “The work has ensured Jobcentre Plus can provide appropriate and flexible support to customers, regardless of their disabilities.

“This move represents real progress for people with a hidden impairment.

“Before there was a constant struggle for them to get help, and there was a lack of expertise available.

“I am delighted that the Trust has been able to assist with the implementation of this ‘Big Society’ model, which will not only support people in Wakefield but nationwide access the vital help to get them back on the road to employment.”