Open Mind to develop a disability support network to improve training and employment pathways for disabled job-seekers in North London

9 January 2006

Open Mind is pleased to be awarded the contract to develop a disability support network for North London. The Disability Support Network (DSN) is a two strand project comprising:

• Direct services to unemployed disabled beneficiaries (advice, guidance, training and support into employment).
• Development of an organic network designed to link service providers, beneficiaries and employers - with the ultimate aim of providing improved opportunities for unemployed disabled people seeking sustainable work

By exploiting the opportunities made available through collaborative working, the DSN aims to contribute to the development of efficient, cost effective, transparent pathways into work. It will:

• Support individuals from all disability groups by developing routes into jobs, placements, work experience and training opportunities (It is expected to contribute to at least 50 employment opportunities in its first year).
• Provide a single access point for individuals, services and employers.
• Link existing services, job-brokerage organisations, disability groups and health professionals.
• Help employers in recruiting and retaining disabled people.
• Help employers in accessing grants and meeting their obligations under the DDA.

Direct service delivery is provided by the DSN's formal delivery partners: John Grooms, Richmond Fellowship, Mencap and Whipps Cross Hospital (Jobs Junction).

Notes for editors:

The DSN is funded by Urban Futures. Urban Futures is a leading North East London regeneration agency providing integrated management of regeneration programmes and contracts. Its Employ ULV project aims to provide an innovative and coordinated approach to labour market intervention in the Upper Lee Valley (ULV), which encompasses the boroughs of Enfield, Haringey, and Waltham Forest.

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