SHELTERED EMPLOYMENT WORKSHOPS VS. SUSTAINABILITY POLICY

Abstract

Background and Objective: The purpose of the article is to determine the rate of change of economic aspects related to social demand for the number of Sheltered Employment Workshops (SEWs) compared to the Commercial Labour Market (CLM), taking into account the needs of people with disabilities (PwDs) and sustainable development (SD).

Materials and Methods: Materials and methods: Using linear regression for fluctuation, the most effective correlation coefficient between SEW funding opportunities and existing businesses in the CLM was determined. A CATI survey was conducted with a sample of N=103 PwDs who indicated a preference for their desired workplace and enterprise size. 

Results: The survey showed that PwDs primarily want to work anywhere (N=31.07%). They strongly prefer to work at CLMs than at SEWs, avoiding discrimination. They are most willing to work for small, then large and micro companies (13.59%, 11.65%, 10.69%). Willingness to run their own business was declared by 9.71% of respondents.

Practical implications: Putting the pace of these changes and PwDs' preferences into practice would promote more efficient use of public resources. This also implies the possibility of vocational activation of PwDs and can be used in the creation of state and local government policies, and achieve SD goals.

Conclusions and Summary: Social inclusion, economic development and sustainability must be combined. PwD's preference for diverse workplaces challenges conventional views and advocates for inclusive employment. The framework interweaves social wellbeing and sustainability, offering insights for policy makers and researchers working towards equitable and resilient societies.