Earning difficulties

Abstract

Many people with learning disabilities have been disadvantaged by the introduction of the national minimum wage, according to a new study by MENCAP. While many people with learning disabilities have benefited from the statutory minimum wage, MEN-CAP claims there have been adverse consequences for others for whom employers have specifically created jobs mainly for therapeutic reasons. Several of these jobs have now either disappeared or people’s hours have been reduced. MENCAP also claims that employers are unwilling to employ people with learning disabilities on a trial basis because of the legislation. On a brighter note, MENCAP’s survey revealed that employers are more willing to consider taking on a person through supported employment schemes. However, the availability of places across the country is patchy and is a long way from meeting the needs of the learning disabled community. MENCAP would like to see the government carry out a larger study to examine the impact of the national minimum wage on people with learning disabilities. It would also like to see an increase in the amount of income support that is disregarded in order to encourage more people to undertake work. A copy of Minimum Wage: Making It Work, is available from MENCAP headquarters at 123 Golden Lane, London EC1Y 0RT.