Support for disabled apprentices policy
Scope
Multiverse is committed to providing an inclusive learning environment for all apprentices that is not only free from discrimination and unfair treatment but that actively values and celebrates difference. This includes providing the support necessary for all disabled learners from the point of application through to being able to fully participate in their apprenticeship programmes and the Multiverse Community.
Whilst this policy covers the apprentices experience as a learner at Multiverse, they should also refer to the Equality and Diversity policy or any policies relevant to disabled staff members at their place of work.
Please note: This procedure does not constitute contractual terms and conditions. Multiverse reserves the right to amend any provision of this procedure subsequent to appropriate consultation.
Definition of disability
For the purposes of the Equality Act 2010, a person has a disability if they have a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. Disability in this context can include a wide range of issues and conditions. Typically, this would be one or a combination of the following categories:
- Specific learning difficulty (SpLD) (e.g. dyslexia)
- Visual impairment - partial sight or blind
- Hearing loss - partial hearing or profoundly deaf
- Mobility difficulties or wheelchair use
- Restricted use of upper limbs (incl. RSI)
- Mental health illnesses
- Condition that is not visible (e.g. epilepsy, sickle cell anaemia, HIV)
- Condition not listed above (e.g. back injury)
- HIV, cancer or multiple sclerosis
The above list should not be seen as exhaustive. If an apprentice feels that they have a condition that is affecting their ability to study effectively, the student should contact a member of the Apprentice Support Team at apprenticesupport@multiverse.io. The Apprentice Support Team will organise a meeting to understand the needs of the apprentice and put the required support and/or reasonable adjustments in place.
Responsibilities
Apprentices have an opportunity to let the Multiverse Team know that they are disabled or about any support needs as part of their application to Multiverse. If an apprentice chooses not to let Multiverse know at this point, they can let Multiverse know at any point during their time on programme by speaking to their coach or the Apprentice Support Team by emailing apprenticesupport@multiverse.io. We strongly encourage apprentices to inform us and their employers of any disabilities or conditions that may put them at risk in the event of an emergency.
Apprentices have the right not to disclose a disability or to request that the existence or nature of their disability be treated as strictly confidential and therefore not shared with relevant staff across Multiverse. Requests for strict confidentiality may mean that a less satisfactory adjustment is provided or that no adjustment can be provided.
Multiverse will manage the process of information sharing and will treat all personal data in accordance with the GDPR; access to disability-related information will be provided on a need-to-know basis only, in order for reasonable adjustments to be implemented.
Apprentices are responsible for requesting any review of implemented reasonable adjustments, if such adjustments are not proving to be effective in meeting their entitlements. Multiverse cannot be held liable for not implementing reasonable adjustments prior to the disclosure of a disability. It is vital that the Multiverse has all relevant information and evidence before staff can assess whether the reasonable adjustments are possible.
Support available for disabled apprentices
- Individualised Learning Plan via Cognassist
- The Apprentice Support Team can facilitate a meeting between the apprentice and their coach and/or the apprentice and their line manager to communicate how best to support the apprentice in the workplace
- Organising a diagnostic assessment for apprentices who feel they may have an unidentified learning difference or need.
- Learning support fund to cover any extra costs of support programme training
- Reasonable Adjustments for Assessments