Andrew Doyle
Question:94. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Education and Skills the supports available to school leavers with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34034/13]
View answerThursday, 11 July 2013
Questions (94)
Written answers
All FAS mainstream programmes are open to all unemployed individuals including those with a disability. In addition, through the Specialist Training Providers programme, FAS will provide a number of places for people with disabilities who require a greater level of support than may be available in mainstream provision. FÁS contracts with Specialist Training Providers (STPs) country-wide to deliver training programmes for people with disabilities. A range of specialist courses are available at two levels of training, Introductory Skills Training (IST) and Skill Specific Training (SST), at 49 locations across the country. The specialist training provision includes in-centre, employer based and blended learning approaches to accommodate learners' training needs. These training courses lead to awards at levels 3-5 on the National Framework of Qualifications. Specialist Training is provided to a wide range of clients with all types of disabilities.
The Fund for Students with Disabilities (FSD) provides funding to both further and higher education institutions for the provision of services and supports for full-time students with disabilities. The Fund aims to ensure that students can participate fully in their academic programmes and are not disadvantaged by reason of a disability. There are three types of assistance typically provided under the Fund for Students with Disabilities: Assistive Technology Equipment and Software; Personal and Academic Support; Transport. The Fund for Students with Disabilities is managed by the HEA on behalf of my Department. Students can contact the disability or access officer in his/her institution for information on the Fund for Students with Disabilities. Further details of the services and supports which are funded can be found on www.studentfinance.ie.