Nicola,
If you find an employer willing to train you in becoming a DSA assesor remember that if you apply for Access to Work funding within six weeks of commencing employment ALL additonal costs of supporting you in that employment in terms of special training, equipment etc will be met from government funds. Many employers are not aware of this fund so always mention it in an interview or on an application as it will significantly reduce the cost of employment for the organisation concenred. There is no qualifiaction criterea for you to worry about so you can state catagorically that it wil be available. If an application is made after the 6 week period then the employer has to pay a percentage, so it is worth making the application when you start. This can be done via the local Jobcentre Plus unit who will provide all the forms etc. There is no specific limit to this fund as there is in the DSA but of course the specialist assessors working in the field are not profligate in thei!
r recommendations as they are checked by experienced employment service personel.
It may also be worth talking to the local authority where you live as many opperate schemes where a percentage of your salary is paid to the employer as recompense for probable lower output etc. There are many types of scheme like this so it's worth finding out what your local council offers.
I am sure that many others will inform you of what the changing standards and forthcoming introduction of qualifications will be to become a DSA Assessor, but the one positive thing that I can add is that as a person with a disability you should be able to bring a degree of empathy (never sympathy) which is half the battle of becoming a decent assessor.
Hope this helps.
If you need any more help let me know and I can perhaps contact you off forum.
Regards
Terry Hart
Disability Assist Services
University of Plymouth
-----Original Message-----
From: Nicola Pamphilon [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Wed 10/12/2003 12:57
To: [log in to unmask]
Cc:
Subject: dsa assors
Hi All
sorry for a possible repetition but can any one give me information on dsa assessors. what qualifications do you need to be an assessor and wher can this qualification be obtained? what cost is involved if any? i am registered blind and unemployed and don't know if this makes a difference to the cost. please let me know if your access centre or college offers such training or if you know any where else that offers the training.
thanks for your help
Nicola
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