Vocational Readiness in Long-term Conditions and Disability

This session addresses the impact of having a long-term condition and disability during adolescence on education and vocation. In addition, the session explores the legislation in place to support young people achieving their vocational potential.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Describe the impact of long-term conditions and disability on educational/vocational developmental milestones
• Describe the implications of the Equality Act for young people with long-term conditions and disability

All adolescents including those with long-term conditions and/or disabilities have hopes and dreams. They want to:

• Be valued as human beings
• Be treated with dignity
• Have access to education and job training
• Have access to opportunities for social experiences and community involvement, recreation and worship
• Be able to find meaningful work for reasonable pay when they are ready for it

Yet studies show that adolescents with long-term conditions and/or disabilities are more often unemployed and more socially isolated. Studies have also shown that those who are involved in their care have lower expectations for their future.