Understanding Supported Employment for people with disability
Supported employment is a critical service designed to help individuals with disability secure and maintain meaningful employment. It bridges the gap between the capabilities of job seekers with disability and the demands of employers, fostering an inclusive workforce.
Supported employment is not just about finding a job; it’s about building a career and a future where everyone has the chance to contribute and thrive. By understanding and supporting these initiatives, we can help create a more inclusive world for people with disability.
What is Supported Employment?
Supported employment is a system of support for individuals with disability to assist them in finding and keeping a job. It involves a combination of individualised services, such as job coaching, job placement, and ongoing support, tailored to the unique needs and goals of the person seeking employment. The core principles of supported employment include:
- Individualised Services: Each person receives a tailored plan that considers their strengths, preferences, and goals. This personalized approach ensures that the support provided aligns with the individual’s aspirations and capabilities.
- Competitive Employment: The aim is to place individuals in jobs where they earn a proper legislated wage and work alongside employees without disability. This fosters integration and equality in the workplace.
- Ongoing Support: Continuous support is provided to both the employee and the employer. This might include on-the-job training, assistance with job modifications, and regular check-ins to address any emerging issues.
- Integrated Settings: The emphasis is on placing individuals in typical work environments rather than segregated or sheltered workshops. This helps promote social inclusion and equal opportunity.
Access Industries believes in a holistic approach to employment support. In addition to excellent workplace facilities, we provide other services for supported employees to facilitate a supportive and productive workplace. These services are underpinned by the National Standards for Disability Services, and the NDIS Practice Standards, and provide an environment for each employee to achieve their workplace goals.
Access Industries’ Supported Employment services include:
- Individual Employment Plan (IEP) that outlines your employment goals and identifies other areas of support needed
- Welfare Officers who support you with personal issues
- Safety and Training Officers who work with you to achieve your employment goals
- One-on-one training
- Internal group training
- Subsidised canteen
- Annual Presidents’ Award for work commitment and/or outstanding personal development
- Service Awards Recognition
- Flexible work hours to meet your needs
- Safety Awareness sessions (led by supported employees and their managers)
Key Components of Supported Employment
- Vocational Assessment: This initial stage involves evaluating the individual’s skills, interests, and employment goals. A thorough assessment helps in identifying suitable job opportunities and necessary accommodations.
- Job Coaching: Once a job is secured, a job coach provides on-site training and support to help the individual learn job tasks, navigate workplace culture, and develop necessary skills. The intensity of coaching can vary based on the individual’s needs and gradually decrease as they gain independence.
- Follow-Along Support: Ongoing support is critical for long-term success. This can include regular check-ins, problem-solving assistance, and support in career advancement. The goal is to ensure that the employee can maintain employment and address any challenges that arise.
Benefits of Supported Employment
- Empowerment and Independence: Supported employment empowers individuals with disability by providing them with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the workforce. It promotes financial independence and a sense of purpose.
- Inclusion and Diversity: By integrating individuals with disability into the workforce, supported employment fosters a more inclusive and diverse workplace. This benefits not only the employees but also the employers and the broader community.
- Employer Advantages: Employers who participate in supported employment programs often report high levels of job satisfaction and loyalty among their employees with disabilities. Additionally, they benefit from a more diverse workforce, which can enhance creativity and problem-solving.
- Economic Benefits: Supported employment reduces reliance on public assistance programs and increases tax contributions from employed individuals. This creates a positive economic impact on the community.
Conclusion
Supported employment is a vital service that opens doors to meaningful employment for individuals with disability. By providing personalised support and fostering inclusive workplaces, it empowers individuals, enriches businesses, and strengthens communities. As society continues to move toward greater inclusion and equality, supported employment will play an increasingly important role in creating opportunities for all.