The main objectives of the project were: 1. To empower individuals who have SLD's in their professional life and work by creating support tools such as the Worker’s Support Guide, Digital Toolbox, Self-assessment Tool and Job-Selection Tool, and activities such as Information sessions with Careers Practitioners, Awareness Raising Multiplier events etc. that will help assist neurodivergent future workers, VET providers, career guidance and employers towards a more inclusive approach to professional life. 2. To equip employers with tools to combat stigma and misinformation about SLDs and neurodiversity in general in the workplace by the creation of a digital best practice booklet informed by a comprehensive European Analysis, Disorders on the Job Fiches, A Comprehensive Employer’s Guide, Support Material for Recruitment and Support Directory. 3. To enhance work stability and career development for young adults and VET graduates with SLDs transitioning from vocational education to the workforce by building more inclusive workplaces, informing employers and the creation of Task Blueprints to help dys workers complete new tasks in the workplace with clear instructions and understand key documents such as an employment contract.
The project's key motive was to decrease the mental health and economic burden faced by individuals with specific learning difficulties (disorders) - SLD's transitioning from vocational education to the workforce by providing tools and information that empowers them and improve work stability and career development. General awareness of the nature of this disability and the adaptations needed have been slowly improving in the education domain. However, information gaps persist in the professional field, often leaving adults with SLD's without the necessary support to thrive professionally. Thus, generating employment and mental health problems for individuals with SLD, especially self-esteem issues that might substantially impact their professional choices, career progression, and income. In achieving its objective of raising awareness on gaps in information and tool development the project sought to provide career guidance practitioners and employers with relevant resources and tools necessary to fight stigma and the lack of information available for SLD's in employment. Key to our project focus was showing the benefits of neurodiversity in the workplace and improving inclusive recruitment and retention practices.