Parent Support for Employability Preparations Among Young People With Blindness or Low Vision – An Australian Qualitative Study

Employment rates for young people with blindness or low vision (BLV) are cause for concern. Limited research explores the role of parents in supporting employability for these young people. This study aimed to explore how parents support employability preparations for young people with BLV and what influences the strategies they use. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, interviews were conducted with young people with BLV ( n = 9), parents ( n = 10), and vision support teachers ( n = 11). Data were analysed using inductive content analysis. Participants reported that parents used four types of strategies: building work skills, talking about work, requiring contribution to home life, and facilitating independence. These strategies were influenced by parents’ expectations and values, knowledge and expertise, emotional responses, family culture, availability of time and support networks. Targeted efforts to support parents in choosing and implementing employability-building strategies are critical inclusions for programmes and services aimed at boosting employment rates.