An exploration of individuals with sight impairment and their experiences with employment in the United Kingdom

There is a significant disparity between the percentage employed, of the general population, and those registered with sight impairment. In the United Kingdom, it is illegal for companies to discriminate against employees who have disabilities, and reasonable adjustments must be made by employers to prevent this from happening. This study examines factors that affect employment and explores participants’ experiences in the workforce who have sight impairments that cannot be corrected by glasses. Participants who were unregistered with sight impairment, registered with partial sight impairment, or registered with severe sight impairment completed a pre-tested online questionnaire. The aim of the questionnaire was to delve into participants experiences with employment. Results were analysed quantitatively, using descriptive statistics and correlation tests, and qualitatively, using thematic analysis. Eighty-eight participants were included, 53 of whom had severe sight impairments. The following factors were found to be associated with employment: a higher level of qualification (correlation coefficient 0.410, 95% confidence interval [CI: 0.213, 0.574]) and the ability to travel independently (correlation coefficient 0.321, 95% CI [0.113, 0.502]). Two types of support for employees were found: (1) adjustments in the workplace and (2) empathy from employers. Two types of barriers were found for unemployed individuals who are seeking employment: (1) employer discrimination and (2) a lack of self-confidence. This study highlights the factors influencing employment outcomes for individuals with sight impairment. In addition seen is the broadly positive impact that the perception of supportive employers has on people with sight impairment and supports solutions that require reducing employment-related barriers.