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What is Supported Employment?

Supported Employment is an evidence-based and personalized approach to support people with disabilities into real jobs, where they can fulfill their employment aspirations, and achieve social and economic inclusion.

Supported Employment should achieve the following outcomes:

  • Real jobs where people have the opportunity to earn equitable wages and other employment related benefits

  • Development of new skills

  • Social and economic inclusion

  • Promotion of self-determination, choice, and independence

  • Enhanced self-esteem

  • Increased consumer empowerment

  • Increased quality of life where people are treated fairly and with respect

Real jobs are those where:

  • Wages are paid at the going rate for the job, with the same terms and conditions as all other employees

  • The job helps the person to meet their life goals and aspirations

  • The role is valued by managers and colleagues 

  • The job has similar hours and times at work as other employees, with safe working conditions

Real jobs are provided by different types of employers across the private, public, and third sectors. The overarching guiding principle of supported employment is that it is designed to support individuals who do not necessarily meet traditional criteria for 'job readiness' or 'employability'.  ​Fundamental to supported employment is that everyone can work, with the right job and the right support.  

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