Euro-MP praises RNIB on visit to their Education centre.

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 20th May 2004

West Midlands Euro-MP Liberal Democrat Liz Lynne visited the RNIB's Education & Employment Centre in Birmingham to find out about the RNIB courses.

The Centre provides Information, advice, training and support from a team of employment specialists. They also give guidance to individuals seeking employment or a change of direction as well as support to organisations who wish to review their employment and training policies and practices.

Liz was especially interested in a new course they have, to educate businesses, employers and training providers about the provisions of the Disability Discrimination Act.

Liz who as an MP worked on the Act says many companies are not ready for its full implementation this October.

Speaking following the visit.

"The RNIB centre is a great place for people with disabilities who want to know more about getting a job. The centre allows training and support to disabled people, which in turn will allow them to seek employment.

"I am delighted that at long last the Disability Discrimination Act will be fully implemented and disabled people will be able to access buildings.

"The work the RNIB is doing in educating businesses about the Act will be a major benefit to the region. Many businesses are either unprepared or not aware of the Act and this will cause them major problems come October."

ENDS

Notes to Editors

As well as being the rapporteur for the European Year of People with Disabilities 2003, Liz Lynne MEP also drafted the European Parliament's report supporting a UN Convention on Disabled People's Rights.

Forthcoming events hosted by RNIB West Midlands:

To book places at these events either call RNIB Employment line on 0870 013 9556 or email: employmentline@rnib.org.uk

Date: 16th June

Event: Employment open day- Exhibition showcasing accessible equipment and RNIB services

Venue: RNIB West Midlands office

Time: 13:30 - 16:00

Date: 17th June

Event: Bolty in Brum - Speaker Steve Cunningham founder of England Blind Football Team

Venue: Aston Villa FC ground

Time: 12:00-14:00

Date: 18th June

Event: Work matters - Highlighting potential of workers with sight loss. Will include BBQ demonstration by a blind chef.

Venue: Newman College, Birmingham

Time: 11:30 - 14:15