Research shows that staff who are blind or have low vision are just as capable as their sighted peers.
However, most employers see blindness and low vision as a limitation when, in fact, it is the complete opposite.
Is one of the following misconceptions stopping you from choosing the best candidate?
Myth: Someone who is blind or has low vision will experience more injuries
The truth:
There is no evidence that someone who is blind or has low vision is any more at risk of a workplace accident than anyone else. In fact, at Vision Australia, staff who are blind or have low vision make up 15 percent of the workforce and as a group have fewer injuries than sighted staff.
Through specialised training, people who are blind or have low vision travel safely and independently– whether it’s to get to work, travel on a plane or reach their desk.
Myth: Someone who is blind or has low vision can’t do the job efficiently
The truth:
There are excellent technologies that enable people who are blind or have low vision to get the job done, sometimes more efficiently than their sighted peers. Once any necessary accommodations are set, you can expect employees with a vision condition to be efficient, have strong attention to detail and possess impressive computer skills.
Myth: Equipment and modifications are too expensive
The truth:
You’re not out of pocket. The government’s Job Access program provides funding for employers to make reasonable accommodations and adjustments to the workplace (both physical and technological) to support staff with a disability.
Myth: People living with disability won’t fit in
The truth:
People who are blind or have low vision have developed greater soft skills in problem solving, adaptability and empathy as they have learnt to navigate and adjust to living and working in a sighted world. Also considering people with disability to join your team opens the talent pool and helps create a truly diverse workplace.
Interested to learn more? Visit www.visionaustralia.org/seewhatspossible