Sheffield to host job fair for jobseekers with disabilities

Sheffield will play host to an employment fair for job seekers with special educational needs and disabilities next month, and it is going to be bigger than ever.
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Thanks to the overwhelming response from participants across the country, organisers Autism Plus said Neurodiversity Employment and Skills Fair 2020 is back for the third time to cater to the needs of all individuals with neurodiverse conditions.

The conditions include autism, dyspraxia, dyslexia, ADHD, Asperger’s, Dyscalculia and Tourettes syndrome.

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Autism Plus Katie Mitchell said the job fair aims to serve as a platform to give an opportunity to those with disabilities while understanding what these individuals face when looking for work.

The job fair for those with neurodiverse conditions will be held next month in Sheffield. Picture by Autism Plus.The job fair for those with neurodiverse conditions will be held next month in Sheffield. Picture by Autism Plus.
The job fair for those with neurodiverse conditions will be held next month in Sheffield. Picture by Autism Plus.

“Those with disabilities normally have difficulties with their applications for job interviews.

“They often lack confidence and self-belief and we are hoping that those who struggle with this issue could come to this event, knowing that this is a safe place for them.”

She said serving those with disabilities also means that the employment fair will have to be different and provide better access to facilities and support.

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The job fair, which is the first of its kind in South Yorkshire, was previously held in Sheffield and Doncaster.

“This time, it is going to be bigger from the last two that we had. Now we have bigger space, more autism-friendly and they can move around freely and if they need to be in a quiet place, there will be a breakout room they could use,” she said.

She also said the organisers are currently looking for employers who could offer higher level roles to the jobseekers.

“In Sheffield, we have some great connections but they are limited to entry level positions such as in retail and we have struggled to find positions for the candidates who are seeking for higher level roles.

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“It would be great for these employers to attend this event and we’d be keen to speak to them,” she said.

Entry-free, the job fair will be held on February 11, 10am to 3pm at Showroom Workstation, 15 Paternoster Row.

For more information and to reserve a session please contact Autism Plus on 0114 3840300 or email [email protected]