Disability rights and support
The Equality Act 2010 protects disabled people. Employers, colleges, universities or learning providers:
cannot treat you less favourably than others for any reason connected to your disability
must make reasonable adjustments to make sure you're not seriously disadvantaged during your course
Do I have to tell my employer about my disability?
You don’t have to tell an employer or learning provider about a disability. But if you do tell them, they’ll be able to make reasonable adjustments for you at your interview, and if you get the job.
If you want support with reasonable adjustment or want to speak with someone about a disability, there are a few stages where you could do this:
during the application process
before the interview
at the interview
in the job
Disability Confident scheme for employers
Many employers have signed up to the Disability Confident government scheme. It encourages employers to recruit and retain disabled people and those with health conditions.
If an employer has signed up to the scheme, it shows that they’re committed to supporting you in work if you’re disabled.
Looking for an apprenticeship job with a Disability Confident employer? Use our vacancy search and check the box ‘Disability Confident employers’ to find the right role for you.
Useful sources of disability support
Access to Work can help you get or stay in work if you have a physical or mental health condition or disability.
LEAD Scotland provides free learning, befriending and helpline services across Scotland for disabled people and carers.
Find education, training and employment guides.
The Disabled Apprentice Network (DAN) brings together Disabled apprentices and those who have finished their apprenticeship. It's a lively and friendly forum to share your experiences and offer views on what could improve apprenticeships for Disabled people.
ARC Scotland works alongside people who need additional support, and their families. This includes people with learning disabilities, autism, mental health difficulties, sensory or physical disabilities.
Money to support you while you study either full-time or part-time college and university courses.
Get up to £1,500 towards learning or other activities if you're a disabled person between the age of 19 and 25.
Students can claim ESA. It's a weekly payment if you have a disability or health condition that affects how much you can work.
If you're younger than 22 or disabled, you can get free bus travel across Scotland. Use this to get to and from your college, university or other training course.
Enable is a charity which strives to deliver an equal society for every citizen. They have many different roles, including:
campaigning for disabled people’s rights
working alongside people who face barriers to getting a job
Get advice on Student Space, including stories from other students, on how you can approach the challenges of student life.
Explore other topics in this section
Got any questions?
You can also check out our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) or get in touch with our team who will be happy to help.