Project Objectives and Tangible Results This project aimed to address the significant labour gap affecting people with intellectual disabilities by promoting their employability through the development of training materials for the three main actors involved: special educators, the business sector, and people with intellectual disabilities. A digital platform for collaboration was also developed as a meeting point for the different stakeholders. Its purpose was to connect employers and job seekers, facilitating the employment of people with disabilities in the tourism, manufacturing, and new technologies sectors. Specific Objectives: Trained special educators to guide and support people with disabilities in their job search. Increased awareness among businesses about the benefits of inclusive employment. Equipped people with intellectual disabilities with practical tools and job-related skills in key economic sectors. Developed a digital platform to enhance communication, networking, and employability opportunities.
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Article 27) recognizes the right to work in an inclusive and accessible environment. However, only 44% of adults with intellectual disabilities were employed, compared to 83% of adults without disabilities, highlighting the urgent need for action. Despite progress, several barriers to inclusive employment remained: Employer bias and exclusion practices. Lack of job skills and training. Limited employment information and workplace accommodations. Insufficient incentives and support programs. In the project’s partner countries, the situation was particularly concerning: Spain: Only 1 in 5 people with intellectual disabilities was employed (20%, PLENA INCLUSIÓN, 2020). Italy: Less than one in five disabled individuals worked, with disability spending below the European average. Greece: The majority of people with disabilities were excluded from the workforce. Austria: Stronger inclusion policies required one registered disabled worker per 25 employees in larger companies. This project aimed to reverse negative employment statistics and create a more inclusive society where people with intellectual disabilities have equal job opportunities.