Empowering SEND students

Disability confidence is in Fairhive’s DNA. As a not-for-profit landlord of over 8,500 affordable homes across Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and South Northamptonshire, which means all of its income is invested back into its social purpose, the business has supported and encouraged many individuals with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) in their search for employment.

Fairhive’s own Assistant Director of People, John Wallbank, has type 1 diabetes, so he understands the importance of psychological safety at work and therefore, strives to create a culture where employees can be their authentic selves. Here are his team’s top tips to navigating the recruitment process as a SEND student.

1. Everyone has a personal ‘network’, made up of family, friends and neighbours, which can help connect you to opportunities. Create a list of contacts, reach out to them and inform them of your job goals. You can also join social networking sites and job boards – there’s even specialist LinkedIn Networks available for people with disabilities like autism.

2. If you have a special educational need or disability and are anxious about the interview process, ask the employer for the questions in advance or let them know you may need extra time to process them. You can also ask if someone you know can accompany you to the interview for moral support.

3. Practise your interviewing skills ahead of the meeting with a friend or family member, but try to make it as realistic as possible. You should feel comfortable introducing yourself, shaking hands, making eye contact, storytelling and thanking the interviewer for their time once the interview is over.

4. As well as practising interviewing skills, you should prepare things to say. Write down your skills, what you love doing, what you’re great at and your accomplishments – it’s important to focus on your abilities, not your disability. When it comes to experience, stick to the positives because even the bad ones will have provided valuable lessons.

5. Don’t be disheartened if you don’t make it through to the next stage of interviews as the experience has: extended your network; allowed you to explore whether the role is right for you; and increased your skills and confidence.