Benefits and counseling

Benefits of supported employment

The individual:

• earns income;
• has structure in his day or life;
• makes choices;
• is treated with respect and has a valued adult role;
• develops skills;
• enhances economic self-reliance;
• increases self-esteem and improves self image;
• has more satisfaction with finances and leisure;
• sense of meaning;
• enhanced social contact, relationships and community integration;
• improved health.

The parents and families:

• can see their daughter and son become a contributing member of the community
• their daughter and son can also contribute to the family income, which is very important in developing countries;
• have an improved relationship with their son or daughter;
• they can perceive their daughter or son as a person with abilities – and a future.
• reduced stigma.

Benefits for the employer

• supported employment workers can perform the task required;
• employer needs are also supported;
• have the chance to act in a value consistent manner and contribute to the community welfare;
• subsidies;
• support and coaching;
• developing inclusive, supportive and respectful atmosphere at workplace.

Benefits for the public sector:

                As more people with disabilities became actively involved in the labour force, they became more economically self-reliant and less dependent on public resources.

                Supported employment is an important policy instrument to promote individual rights, inclusion and participation.

                Supported employment contributes to promoting community cohesion and safety, enhancing civic participation, reducing public spending on welfare benefits and promoting social and economic development.