SET - Reality

The employment rate of people with disabilities (PWD) is relatively low, even though they represent one-sixth of the working-age population in the EU. PWD are almost twice as likely to be out of work as healthy people. With more support, a great many Europeans with impairments could (re)enter the labor market.

Active inclusion and full participation in society is the core statement of the UN Convention on the Rights of PWD. The member states of the EU have signed this treaty.

Having employment is one of the most central concerns for functioning social inclusion. Vocational training for PWD and some legal regulations are not enough to create a positive, healthy and supportive work environment. The attitude of employers is essential. The goal is to make them aware of what PWD are capable of and create awareness of their needs in order to influence PWD employment opportunities in a positive way.

We will provide high quality information (educational material) to employers with the aim of thereby increasing both the employment rate and the social integration of PWD.

Linking economic performance and mutual support plays an essential role in promoting growth, sustainability and inclusion. Our target groups are entrepreneurs, representatives of social enterprises and PWD.

The project involves 9 partners - countries from the EU:

• Romania
  
• Greece (2)
  
• Portugal
  
• United Kingdom
  
• Italy
  
• Turkey
  
• Lithuania
  
• Austria.

This project was funded with support from the European Commission.

This publication reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.