A guide to residential training for disabled adults and the colleges and training providers helping disabled people secure and keep jobs or self-employment. The training is provided when there are no programmes available locally.
Who is eligible
Residential training for disabled adults will help you if you:
- are a UK resident
- have a physical or sensory disability, or a learning difficulty
- are aged 18 or over
- cannot access suitable local training
- are unemployed and have the potential to take up employment, including supported employment
You will receive an allowance during your training. Your residential costs, which can also include some travel costs, will be paid for by the Residential Training Unit.
Types of courses
Courses vary from college to college, with many leading to National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs). Here is a selection:
- administration
- audio-visual technician
- construction trades
- catering
- cycle mechanics
- decorating
- electronics
- engineering
- horticulture
- information technology
- leisure/tourism/travel
- recording studio
- retail
- teleworking
- vehicle refinishing
The programmes are tailored to assist trainees in securing employment through a combination of guidance, work experience, vocational (work-based) training and qualifications. The length of courses will vary according to your needs, but will not last longer than 52 weeks.
Some training programmes are specifically designed for people with a hearing or visual impairment.
The programmes are tailored to assist trainees in securing employment through a combination of guidance, work experience, vocational (work-based) training and qualifications. The length of courses will vary according to your needs, but will not last longer than 52 weeks.
Some training programmes are specifically designed for people with a hearing or visual impairment.
How to apply
To apply for residential training, you should contact your Disability Employment Adviser (DEA) at your local Jobcentre. They will look at the options available you.
They can also give you information about benefits you may receive while on the programme.
Where the courses are held
The training takes place in a residential setting in accessible buildings. Staff members with specialist knowledge of disability issues teach the courses.
There are nine specialist course providers located throughout England and you attend if you’re eligible and regardless of where you live. There are no providers located in Wales or Scotland.
Colleges and training providers
Natspec
The membership association for independent specialist colleges providing further education for young people with learning difficulties and/or disabilities.
Recently there have been changes in the application process for specialist colleges, but specialist college places, and the funding to support them, remain available. The website gives advice on how to apply and a directory of colleges.
Website: https://www.natspec.org.uk
Contact details from GOV.uk of colleges and training providers as part of the residential training for disabled adults programme:
Doncaster College for the Deaf, South Yorkshire
Enham, Andover, Hampshire
Portland College, Mansfield, Nottingham
Royal National College for the Blind, Hereford
St Loye’s Foundation, Devon