Mencap statement on its involvement in the Government's Work Programme

Mencap is subcontracted to deliver the Work Programme, which is the government’s employment initiative aimed at supporting long-term unemployed and disabled people into work. It is not related in any way to the Work Experience programme.

Through the Work Programme, Mencap provides tailored support and training, including interview practice, help with job applications, CV writing and intensive in-work support to people with a learning disability. Mencap also works with employers to ensure that people are well supported in their roles.

Mencap does not run charity shops, and therefore Work Programme candidates are not employed in this way by Mencap. Local groups affiliated to Mencap may run shops, but these are independent charities in their own right and will have their own employment initiatives.

Mencap has the specialist knowledge and expertise to work with people with a learning disability. It hopes that by being involved in the Work Programme, it can support more people with a learning disability into employment.