Diversity within the tourism industry

The tourism industry offers a diverse range of roles and provides numerous opportunities for individuals with disabilities to thrive. From customer service, event planning, and digital marketing, to accessible travel consultancy and virtual tour coordination, there are many pathways that cater to different strengths and abilities.

The growing focus on inclusivity and accessibility within the sector has opened doors for individuals with differing abilities to contribute meaningfully, whether through front-line roles or behind-the-scenes operations. With advances in technology and a shift towards remote work, the tourism industry continues to evolve, creating an inclusive environment where everyone can find rewarding career opportunities.

Applying to a third level college

If you are considering a career in the Tourism and Hospitality sector there are many qualifications that you can pursue through the CAO process. The application process also recognises the needs to support student diversity in higher education through two specific access routes. The Disability Access Route to Education (DARE) is a national scheme aimed at supporting students with disabilities by offering reduced points for eligible applicants.

Students may also be eligible to apply for the Higher Education Access Route (HEAR) a higher education admissions scheme for Leaving Certificate students (under 23) whose economic or social background are underrepresented in higher education.

To search all CAO courses within the Tourism and Hospitality sector: click here. It is advisable to contact the course provider that you are interested in to discuss any concerns and questions that you may have.

For more information and guidance on access routes to higher education with a disability you can contact AHEAD (Association for Higher Education Access & Disability) at https://www.ahead.ie/accessingcollege

Third level colleges offer supports to learners with a disability to ensure that every student has equal access to higher education. Most colleges and universities have dedicated disability offices or access services that can help with the application process, including guidance on how to disclose a disability and apply for accommodations.

Supports available on your college journey

If you have a disability, there are many supports available throughout your college journey to ensure you can succeed and thrive. Most colleges have dedicated disability services or access offices that offer personalised support plans, including academic accommodations such as extra time in exams, accessible classrooms, and assistive technology. You can also access one-on-one tutoring, note-taking services, or mentoring to help you keep up with your studies.

Many institutions provide mental health and counselling services for emotional support. Additionally, financial support through grants like the Fund for Students with Disabilities can help cover the costs of necessary equipment or resources. Engaging with these supports early ensures that you have the supports, tools and resources needed to navigate college life with confidence.

Alternative pathways to education and work

There are many educational providers that support people with disabilities to achieve their educational potential including special educational classes in schools and special educational schools. Specialist training providers like Rehab Group’s National Learning Network (NLN) offer valuable alternatives to traditional higher education pathways for those needing more support to get an education or access employment.

NLN’s holistic approach focuses on developing essential life skills, providing mental health support, enhancing employability, and empowering people to overcome barriers and reach their full potential.

Public employment support services that mentor individuals with disabilities to find their best fit with the world of work and have developed strong employer networks include EmployAbility services. This is also a recruitment advice service for the business community. Your local EmployAbility service will give you employment help. It also gives employers access to a pool of potential employees. They also provide information and support on accessing grants.

Pobal supported Workability programme.

This programme aims to ensure that people with disabilities are fully supported to find and maintain employment and organisations which employ programme participants are supported to ensure that their employment is successful. The primary target group for the programme is people with disabilities aged 16 years and over who are currently not work ready and/or are distant from the labour market. 

Specialisterne Ireland is a specialist consultancy for neurodivergent people (autistic people, those on the autism spectrum, with ADHD, dyspraxia/DCD, dyslexia and similar neurodiversities), supporting them into employment. We match the skills and characteristics of these individuals with roles that will suit their unique ways of working, while also harnessing their strengths. We help them find employers who will make the most of their abilities while appropriately accommodating their challenges.

The government also has a Wage Subsidy Scheme that incentivises Employers to take on people with disabilities. The Scheme is available to private sector employers who can employ workers with a disability between 15 and 39 hours per week.

To view all related careers in the Tourism and Hospitality sector click here

To search all live jobs in the sector: click here