Within the Disabilities beyond limits project, FAR, as an applicant, generated the following scenario after workshops with young women with disabilities, starting from their real problems:
Scenario 2 : “ÎBreaking Employment Barriers”
Problem Identified îin the Community: Limited Employment Opportunities for YWwD
WHERE? > Local businesses and companies in Bucharest.
WHY?
Prejudice and discrimination in the hiring process.
Lack of accessible jobs.
Insufficient awareness of YWwD skills and capabilities.
CAUSES:
Stigmatization of disabilities in the workplace.
Inadequate infrastructure at workplaces.
Limited dissemination and education about YWwD skills.
HOW CAN WE CHANGE THE SITUATION?
Possible solutions:
Employer Outreach Workshop:
- Action Steps: Organize a series of workshops for local employers with diversity and inclusion experts. Workshops should address common misconceptions, provide success stories of employees with disabilities and provide practical advice on creating an inclusive workplace.
- Outcome: Increased awareness and understanding î among employers, leading to a more inclusive hiring process and workplace culture.
Inclusion Job Fair:
- Action Steps: Host a job fair specifically focused on connecting YWwD with inclusive employers. Provide a platform for companies that prioritize diversity to showcase job opportunities, network with potential employees, and conduct on-site interviews.
- Result: Direct placement opportunities work for YWwD, removing barriers in the hiring process and promoting relationships between employers and the disability community.
Mentorship Program:
- Action steps: Establish a mentoring initiative in which successful professionals with disabilities mentor YWwD job seekers. Provide guidance on career development, interview skills and workplace etiquette.
- Outcome: Increased confidence and preparedness among YWwD job seekers, îalong with a network of mentors and supportive peers in the workforce.
Accessible Workplace Initiative:< br />
- Action steps: Collaborate with local businesses to conduct workplace accessibility audits. Identify and address physical and digital barriers to create a more inclusive and accessible environment.
- Outcome: Jobs become more accessible, allowing YWwD to navigate and contribute effectively. This initiative also raises employers' awareness of the importance of accessible workspaces. >
- Action steps: Develop and implement skill development programs tailored to YWwD needs and interests. Provide training in areas such as technology, communication and specific workplace skills.
- Outcome: YWwD gain valuable skills, making them more competitive in the job market. Employers recognize the potential of YWwD as skilled and capable contributors.
Community Awareness Campaign:
- Action steps: Launch a community-wide campaign to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about YWwD capabilities. Use various media channels to share success stories, highlight skills and promote the benefits of diverse workplaces.
- Result: Improved societal attitudes and perceptions, promoting a more inclusive that supports YWwD îin search of a job.
