London Underground launches work experience programme for disabled people across whole Tube Network

Transport for London announce that following a previous pilot scheme on the Piccadilly Line, London Underground will be extending their Work Experience Programme for Disabled People across the network. The programme will aim to offer a total of 18 eight-week placements, running throughout the year.

Each placement will focus on offering disabled people the opportunity to work in a tailored customer service role on one of nine London Underground lines, involving a number of non safety critical duties including giving customers directions and helping them buy tickets as well as updating travel information.

Disability organisations, local councils and charities can recommend individuals who they feel would benefit from the programme. Short-listed candidates will then be invited to attend a workshop to help practise their interview skills prior to the interview process. Successful candidates will receive comprehensive training and workplace risk assessments will be carried out.

During the placement, each of the successful work experience candidates will be allocated a mentor who will be trained to ensure that the candidate gets the most out of their work experience. The mentor will directly supervise and support the candidate during the entire placement. Candidates will also have an opportunity to obtain Unit Accreditation within the City & Guilds NVQ for Rail Transport.

The work experience programme will be split into three blocks, the first of which will offer placements on the Central, Jubilee and Northern lines. Candidates are currently being recruited for this block, with the aim of offering placements between 24/09/2007 to 16/11/2007. Further placements will be available between 11/02/2008 to 04/04/2008 on the Metropolitan Hammersmith and City and Victoria lines and 09/06/2008 to 01/08/2008 on the Bakerloo, District and Piccadilly lines.

Organisations who wish to recommend applicants for the second and third block of placements should contact Charlotte Eade, HR Project Manager, on 020 7027 2765 or email charlotte.eade@tube.tfl.gov.uk