Can people with disabilities truly contribute to the workforce ?

A recent survey done for the Danish Disability Council revealed a 13 % increase in the past two years of people doubting that a person with a physical disability is actually able to solve their tasks. Meaning that 1 in 2 people now have these doubts.

Why do we question if a person with a visual disability, a hearing disability or a person using a wheel chair or has cerebral paresis have the abilities to take an education ? solve intellectual problems ? or just managing having a job ?

I personally believe it is due to lack of knowledge, perhaps spiced up with some anxiety for the unknown. Could also be a consequence of the perfectionism and performance culture that has made us so busy focusing on the ego and lost the ability to be curious on the unknown and different.

In any case I think it is a scary development in our society. Same survey indicates that close to half of the recipients asked, would not consider to date a person with a disability...So the handicap clearly stands in the way for seeing " the person behind".

The theme for the 2019 annual meeting of disability councils was “ Form the Future”  

I believe many people with disability can contribute to the workforce – and they want to !!

The Danish Government have recently suggested to implement a “ competency card” which will allow the employer to get an overview of what the person with a disability can and cannot do, what personal aids and compensations options are available for the individual and more relevant information.

So employers out there – please consider your social innovation – take a chance – be the company that dares and thrust – be a part of breaking taboos and anxiety by ensuring that your employees have the opportunity to meet a person with disabilities and see for them self that they can contribute to the workforce.

Not only with completing assigned tasks, but also in changing the team dynamics to be more inclusive and innovative. I personally believes this will add to an inspiring and motivating working climate.

Not to mention being a huge benefit both on a personal level but also on a societal financial level.