Finding employment by profound training

Organization
Living Link
Country of Implementation
South Africa
First published
31.01.2016

Trainings include theoretical modules and a period of job sampling in the open labour market. The course material was written for and in collaboration with intellectually disabled people. There are no formal assessments, as many of the young adults are illiterate. Approximately 35 adults are trained each year.

Students work and rotate through various departments, such as mailrooms, document control, and administration/ reception.

Solution details

People

Stanley BAWDEN
“The Living Link is a training centre for adults where we seek to break down the barriers that exist, and ultimately create hope and opportunity for these people within society.” Mr. Stanley Bawden, The Living Link

Problems Targeted

There are many barriers for persons with intellectual disabilities when it comes to finding employment, but being employed is a big step towards independent living. Therefore, the programme’s aim is to provide sufficient skills and education to allow intellectually disabled adults to have a greater chance to access the regular labour market.

Solution, Innovation and Impact

The project was initiated in 1999 and formerly started in 2000. The organization offers a one-year Adult Integration Programme and a six-moth Work Readiness Programme. Trainings include theoretical modules and a period of job sampling in the open labour market. The modules consist of courses in lifestyle management, personal empowerment, employment, and financial management. The job sampling is facilitated by two job coaches who support students in the practical application of skills learned in a real-world working context. Job sampling is carried out in a number of fields or departments within a variety of organizations. Students work and rotate through various departments, such as mailrooms, document control, administration/reception, warehouses, organic gardening, and corporate kitchens. Participants also receive support from the organization once they have graduated and are engaged in employment.

Funding, Outlook and Transferability

The prospect for future growth is to transfer the programme to other provinces within South Africa. The biggest issue is a lack of finances to take the project further. Currently, there is a plan to expand the programme to Cape Town or Durban at some point in the next five years. Meanwhile, new partnerships within potential employers are constantly being explored.

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Students work and rotate through various departments, such as mailrooms, document control, and administration/ reception.

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Country of Implementation

South Africa