Employment – preparing for work
Thinking about work or returning to work after sight loss can feel daunting, but there is support available to help you plan your next steps in a way that works for you. Whether you are exploring your options, looking for training, or starting to search for jobs, the right advice early on can save time and build confidence.
This page outlines some of the main sources of employment advice and support available in the UK for blind and partially sighted people.
Getting advice before you start
Before beginning a job search, it can be helpful to talk things through with a careers or employment adviser. They can help you think about your skills, interests, and any support you may need at work.
Jobcentre Plus and DWP employment support
Jobcentre Plus is part of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and supports people who are looking for work, training, or self-employment.
If you are claiming benefits, your local Jobcentre can offer:
- Information about job opportunities and training
- Support from a Work Coach
- Access to specialist disability employment support
Some Jobcentres have Disability Employment Advisers, or access to specialist teams, who can give advice about work options, reasonable adjustments, and next steps.
National Careers Service
The National Careers Service provides free, impartial advice about learning, training, and work. You can access information online or speak to a qualified careers adviser to help you:
- Explore different types of work
- Understand your skills and experience
- Plan training or career changes
Training and specialist support
Residential training courses
Residential training courses may be an option for blind and partially sighted people who are unemployed and cannot access suitable training locally. These courses can help people:
- Develop work-related skills
- Build confidence and experience
- Prepare for employment or self-employment
Your Work Coach or employment adviser can tell you whether residential training is appropriate and how to apply.
Specialist employment support organisations
Some organisations offer specialist employment programmes for disabled people, including blind and partially sighted people. Support may include job preparation, confidence building, and in-work support.
Availability can vary by area, so it is best to ask your Jobcentre or local support service what is currently offered where you live.
Financial and practical support at work
Access to Work
Access to Work is a government scheme that can provide practical and financial support if you are:
- Starting a new job
- Already in work
- Self-employed
Support may include help with specialist equipment, assistive technology, support workers, or travel costs related to your sight loss. Access to Work is often a key source of support for blind and partially sighted people in employment.
You can find up-to-date information and apply through the GOV.UK website.
Looking for work
Online job searching
Many vacancies are advertised online. Using job search websites allows you to:
- Search by role, sector, salary, and location
- Set up job alerts so you hear about new roles quickly
- Apply directly online
The Find a Job service on the GOV.UK website is a good starting point, alongside other well-known job sites.
When searching, it can help to:
- Use filters to narrow results
- Search by sector if you are unsure of job titles
- Set alerts for roles you are interested in
Job search apps
Job search apps can make it easier to look for work on your phone or tablet. Most allow you to:
- Upload your CV
- Save jobs to apply for later
- Receive notifications when new roles are posted
Once you are familiar with one app, others tend to work in a similar way.
Approaching employers directly
Not all jobs are advertised. If there is an organisation you would like to work for, you can contact them directly to ask about opportunities. Some employers are happy to keep details on file for future roles.
Other ways to find work
You may also find vacancies through:
- Employment agencies
- Trade publications and sector-specific websites
- Careers fairs and recruitment events
- Local newspapers (online versions may be more accessible)
Other helpful resources
Thomas Pocklington Trust
Thomas Pocklington Trust provides employment support for blind and partially sighted people at different stages of their working life.
Their Works For Me programme offers practical guidance on developing employability skills, preparing CVs and application forms, and navigating the job market. Free coaching and mentoring is also available to help people explore goals and plan next steps.
For those starting out, the Get Set Progress internship programme offers paid placements designed for people with visual impairments. The Trust also shares employment stories and videos from blind and partially sighted people and employers and provides information for employers about inclusive recruitment and workplace support.
RNIB employment support
RNIB offers information and guidance about employment, rights at work, and Access to Work for blind and partially sighted people. Their website and helpline can be a useful source of up-to-date advice.
If you would like to talk things through or get advice, our advisors can help. We can support you to explore your options, understand what help is available, and find information that feels relevant to you.
You may also find our page on applying for a job helpful if you are starting to make applications or prepare a CV.