Only 39% of working aged blind, deafblind and vision-impaired New Zealanders are employed, but with blind, deafblind and vision-impaired people working in more than 80 different job sectors there are many possibilities. 

Barriers to participating in the workforce include employers' mistaken beliefs that a blind, deafblind or vision-impaired person is unable to do the job and that there are high costs involved in adapting the workplace.

These are myths.

Most jobs can readily be adapted at little or no cost. This may involve making some changes to the physical working environment, assessing and reallocating tasks, or providing specific equipment for the person to do the job. Such accommodations are usually reasonable and people have a right to ask for them. And if costs are involved, there are government grants available to meet those.

The RNZFB offer services and support to employers, job seekers and current employees experiencing sight loss.

Employment Consultants are based in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, and Christchurch and cover all of New Zealand.

If you are blind, deafblind or vision-impaired seeking work opportunities, the Consultants are there to support you. Some of the services they offer are:

• Assistance to help students make appropriate study and employment choices.
• Training and support for members wanting to enter the workforce or keep or adapt a job following sight loss.
• Assistance to find meaningful employment.
• Helping to develop CVs, identifying training needs and liaising with relevant agencies.
• Providing assistance with filling out funding applications for equipment.
• Working with employers to adapt the working area and identify any new equipment needed.
• Helping to ensure both employee and employer receive appropriate training.
• Providing employer awareness (information and advice) on the capabilities of existing or potential employees who are blind, deafblind or vision impaired.

If you want to return to the workforce, get that first job, or need employment advice then contact the Employment Service.

Phone 0800 24 33 33 to be put in touch with the nearest Employment Consultant or contact us at the following email address: employment

If you'd like more information about the Employment Service, you could also read Working it out: An introduction to the RNZFB Employment Service.