Resources and Downloads
Getting Started with Work and Careers
Jun 4, 2024
Career Advice and Support for People with a Learning Disability
Getting Started with Work and Careers
Thinking about your future
When we are young, people often ask, “What do you want to be when you grow up?”
Some people know right away. Others are not sure — and that’s okay!
If you know your dream job, that’s great.
Think about:
- What skills you need
- What training or experience will help you get there
If you don’t know yet, that’s fine too.
You can try different things, talk to people or go to careers fairs and get advice. They can help you find out what jobs might suit you and what steps to take next.
Looking for a job
Finding a job can feel hard — but it can also be exciting. It’s your chance to choose where your career will go.
You can look for jobs in different ways:
- Job websites (like Indeed, JobApplyNI or NI Direct)
- Posters or adverts in shops or community centres
- Word of mouth — ask family, friends, or carers
- Job fairs or employment support services
Writing your CV
A CV is a short document that tells an employer about you. It shows:
- Your education (what you have learned)
- Your skills (what you are good at)
- Your experience (work, volunteering, training)
Tips for a good CV:
- Keep it simple and clear
- Include your name and contact details
- Write about things you are proud of
- Ask someone to check your spelling and layout
You can also write a cover letter — a short note to explain why you want the job and why you would be good at it. If you find this difficult, an employment coach or support worker can help.
Getting ready for interviews
If an employer likes your CV, they might invite you to an interview. An interview is a chance to talk about yourself and show what you can do.
Tips for interviews:
- Practice answering questions with a friend or support worker
- Dress neatly and be on time
- Smile and do your best — it’s okay to be nervous
- Ask if you can bring support if that helps you feel comfortable
Check out
- ARC NI’s resource on supported employment to learn more about how this approach has developed over the years. It also highlights the barriers many people with a learning disability, autism and other support needs face.
- ARC NI’s news blog on the launch of the Together Works Scheme, a project which will support adults with moderate learning difficulties (MLD) into meaningful, therapeutic employment.
Remember
Everyone has skills and talents. You deserve the chance to work, earn money, meet people, and feel proud of what you do. With the right support, you can get on the career ladder and build a future that’s right for you.
- Easy Reads and Toolkits
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- Searching for jobs – SeeAbility
- Preparing a CV – SeeAbility
- Choosing a career – SeeAbility
- Benefits and employment: How does work affect my benefits? – easy read, SeeAbility
- My Work Profile: helping you to identify your skills and qualities and plan for your working future – Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities, 2020
- Job Interviews – easy read, SeeAbility
- Starting work – easy read, SeeAbility
- Finding employment – easy read, SeeAbility
- Work and Skills support and advice – Mencap
- When I Grow Up – FPLD