Chapter 1: Employment IS

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the concept of employment and its key characteristics.
• Identify different types of employment (e.g., full-time, part-time, seasonal, temporary).
• Explain the importance of employment for personal and societal growth.
• Recognize that employment is for everyone.

People with intellectual disabilities should have the same opportunities to earn a living through paid employment as anyone else. This includes having access to job accommodations and support, receiving fair wages and benefits, and working in environments that value diversity.

Historically, the only option for people with intellectual disabilities was sheltered workshops. These environments reinforced the false assumption that people with intellectual disabilities were unemployable. However, this perspective fails to recognize the diverse talents and potential contributions that people with intellectual disabilities can bring to the workforce.

Today, there is a growing recognition of the need to support people with intellectual disabilities in making informed choices about their careers and in accessing the resources necessary to succeed in integrated community employment. Employment offers benefits beyond just a paycheque; it provides social connections, personal growth, and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society. It is crucial to move beyond sheltered workshops and towards inclusive employment practices that recognize the value of all workers.

What is Employment?

According to the Employment Discovery Tool by Community Living disABILITY Services (CLdS), employment is defined as competitive work where wages, benefits, and working conditions meet Employment Standards and pay at least the current minimum wage. Employment does not include work experience, volunteering, or payment below minimum wage.

What is Supported Employment?

"Supported Employment" refers to the assistance provided to people with disabilities to help them secure and maintain employment in integrated settings. The Manitoba Supported Employment Network (MSEN) aligns with the Canadian Government's definition, which states that supported employment involves "real work (paid, minimum wage or standard pay for that position) in an integrated setting with ongoing support provided by an agency with expertise in finding employment for people with disabilities."

Supporting Desired Career Outcomes:

Employment opportunities should not be confined to the traditional 9-5, Monday-Friday framework. It is essential to support people with intellectual disabilities in achieving their desired career outcomes, which may include a variety of work arrangements. When someone begins to enter the workforce, the available jobs tend to require evening and weekend hours, so service providers need to be creative to support people in employment. Some people may prefer to work full-time (40 hours/week), while others might opt for part-time (20 hours/week) or a different schedule that fits their lifestyle and needs. Additionally, people should have the option to choose the time of day they work, whether that’s during the day, evenings, or nights.

Moreover, with the rise of the gig economy, there are opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to become their own employers if they choose. This could involve freelance work, entrepreneurship, or other forms of self-employment. It is crucial to provide tailored support and resources to help people navigate these non-traditional employment paths successfully, ensuring that they can achieve their career goals in a way that suits them best.