Mr Kruger acknowledged the importance of reducing barriers for blind and partially sighted people in employment, emphasizing both moral and economic imperatives. He highlighted the success of Access to Work grants but noted concerns about application backlogs, calling for improvements in processing times. Mr Kruger also called for a focus on employer attitudes and culture rather than solely relying on statutory measures.

My hon. Friend talks about what needs to be done on pathways to work. Does he agree that potential employers need to understand two things? First, they could be in breach of the law if they engage in activities that prevent partially sighted or blind people from getting employment. Secondly, they could be overlooking better-qualified candidates for employment.

There are currently 57,500 people in Northern Ireland with sight loss, and the figure is expected to rise by over 25% by 2032. Preventable eye tests can reduce this figure. Jim Shannon highlighted examples of how early optician visits led to timely medical interventions saving lives. He suggested that the Minister should contact the relevant body in the Northern Ireland Assembly to ensure better collaboration and idea sharing for the benefit of blind and partially sighted people.

Lee Pitcher shared personal experience with his wife's retinitis pigmentosa, emphasizing how technology like Seeing AI and accessible software can support blind or partially sighted individuals in the workplace. He asked the Minister to discuss with the Education Minister about incorporating disability awareness into school curricula.

The hon. Member has rightly mentioned the importance of Access to Work and how it can make a real difference in supporting disabled people, including blind and partially sighted people, to secure and retain employment. One of the challenges is ensuring that there is enough provision and that enough employers are aware of Access to Work. Mr. Richard Baker highlighted the importance of the all-party parliamentary group on eye health and visual impairment in advocating for blind and partially sighted individuals. He pointed out that only one in four visually impaired people in Scotland are employed, with RNIB Scotland research indicating 9,000 registered visually impaired workers of working age, of whom about 2,000 are employed. The MP stressed the need for better access to employment support and highlighted the success of Seescape's rehabilitation services and aids for improving inclusion in workplaces.

Mr. Steve Darling highlighted the significant discrimination faced by blind and partially sighted individuals, particularly in areas such as taxis, hotels, and restaurants. He endorsed the findings of the report and emphasized the importance of co-design and tackling discrimination through strengthened legislation. He also mentioned challenges related to mental health and employment, citing instances where people had less than a year's gainful employment due to barriers. Concerning Access to Work, he pointed out delays in payments and complexities that prevent individuals from receiving necessary support efficiently. Mr. Darling called for improvements in the Disability Confident scheme and requested assurances regarding Access to Work's project plan and turnaround time.