Supported Employment

Summary

The discussion centers on the transformation of the employment landscape for workers with developmental disabilities in Ontario. The phasing out of 'sheltered workshops' in favor of community-based employment is a significant shift. Rhonda Robertson, who has worked as a barista and in reception, shares her experiences, emphasizing the importance of communication and teamwork in her jobs. Joe Gansevles from Hutton House, an organization aiding people with disabilities, discusses the challenges of finding suitable employment and the need for societal attitude changes towards inclusive workplaces. The conversation also touches on the government's role in facilitating this transition and the varying opinions on the value of sheltered workshops.

Takeaways

• 🌟 Ontario is transitioning away from 'sheltered workshops' for workers with developmental disabilities towards community-based employment tailored to individual skills and capacities.
• 💼 Rhonda Robertson, who has a developmental disability, shared her positive work experiences as a barista and in reception, emphasizing the importance of communication and teamwork.
• 🚧 The shift from sheltered workshops to community employment is not without challenges, as many businesses are hesitant to hire individuals with disabilities due to misconceptions and lack of awareness.
• 🤝 Joe Gansevles from Hutton House, an organization supporting individuals with disabilities, stressed the importance of finding the 'right' job that brings meaning to the individual's life through labor.
• 🏢 Hutton House offers a range of support services including vocational guidance, literacy, learning, respite, and recreational activities to help individuals with disabilities lead fulfilling lives.
• 💭 The discussion highlighted the need for society to change its attitudes towards individuals with developmental disabilities, recognizing their capabilities and contributions in the workplace.
• 💰 Financial incentives for employers to hire people with disabilities were discussed, with the consensus that skilled labor should be the primary consideration, not just the disability status.
• 📉 The Ontario government's decision to stop placing new workers in provincially-funded sheltered workshops was praised as a step towards inclusivity and fair wage practices.
• 🤔 There were differing opinions on the value of sheltered workshops, with some arguing they provide a necessary service and comfort for certain individuals, while others see them as a form of exploitation and segregation.
• ⚖️ The conversation underscored the complexity of transitioning from sheltered workshops to community employment, requiring careful planning, collaboration, and consideration of individual preferences and needs.

Q & A

What major change is happening in the employment landscape for Ontario workers with developmental disabilities?

The so-called 'sheltered workshops' are being replaced by employment in the community suited to each individual's capacity.

Why did Rhonda Robertson find it difficult to get a job before approaching Hutton House?

Rhonda found it difficult because many places were hesitant to take a chance on someone with a disability, making it hard for her to find employment that matched her skills and experience.

What is Hutton House and what services do they provide?

Hutton House is an organization based in London, Ontario, that supports people with disabilities in a wide range of areas including vocational, literacy, learning, respite, and recreational activities.

How does Joe Gansevles approach helping individuals like Rhonda find employment?

Joe focuses on finding the right job for the individual, not just any job. He emphasizes the importance of the job being meaningful and believes in the skills of the person he is supporting.

What does Rhonda Robertson like about her jobs as a barista and in reception?

Rhonda enjoys working with people, being around them, and the communication that happens in these roles.

What is the Ontario government's stance on placing new workers in provincially-funded sheltered workshops?

The Ontario government announced that it will no longer place new workers in provincially-funded sheltered workshops.

What are the different opinions on the decision to stop placing new workers in sheltered workshops?

While some, like Michael Bach, see it as an excellent and overdue decision, others like Donald Guse Salah and Pamela Cushing express concerns about the need for progressive changes and the importance of considering individual differences and preferences.

What are the historical origins of sheltered workshops?

Sheltered workshops started largely by parents in the late '40s and '50s who had children with developmental difficulties, as there were no expectations or opportunities for their children in the regular labor market.

What are the arguments for and against the existence of sheltered workshops?

Arguments for sheltered workshops include providing a sense of purpose and a comfortable environment for some individuals with disabilities. Arguments against them include the perpetuation of low expectations, the segregation from the regular labor market, and concerns about exploitation due to wages far below minimum wage.

What are the potential consequences of shutting down sheltered workshops without proper alternatives in place?

Potential consequences include people with disabilities slipping through the cracks, not finding meaningful employment, and a lack of financial resources and tax incentives for businesses to support inclusive hiring.

What is the role of public attitudes and societal change in the discussion about sheltered workshops?

Public attitudes play a significant role, as changing societal views on inclusivity and the capabilities of people with disabilities are necessary for successful integration into the community workforce. The discussion highlights the need for society to catch up with these changes and to create a welcoming environment for everyone.