To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) to detail any training or employment schemes currently available for people with disabilities; (ii) for his assessment of the success of previous schemes; and (iii) what other support his Department offers disabled people seeking employment.

The Department for Communities (DfC) has lead responsibility for employment policy and employment programmes, including for those with disabilities, and is currently developing a Disability Employment Strategy for Northern Ireland, which my Department is contributing to. Minister Hargey would be best placed to respond on issues relating to existing or previous employment schemes and support for those seeking employment.

In relation to training and skills, my Department provides a range of practical, financial, and other support for people with disabilities to support them as they obtain the qualifications and skills to compete in the employment market. Support is available within the further and higher education sectors, as well as for those participating on the vocational training programmes funded by the Department.

Examples include the Disabled Students Allowance for Higher Education students, a focus on disability through the Higher Education Widening Access and Participation Plans, the Additional Support Fund in Further Education, extended eligibility and flexibilities on the Skills for Life and Work programme, and specialist support through the Disability Support Service contract.

In addition, the 2014-2020 Northern Ireland European Social Fund Programme has a dedicated theme to support those with Disabilities with the projects designed to promote employment opportunities and enhance social inclusion among people with disabilities.

My Department’s Careers Service also offer careers guidance interviews, during which any barriers to training or employment are discussed. Careers Advisors also participate in Transition Meetings, including significant follow-up work for young people with a disability at key transition points throughout their education and training journey.