The problem with sheltered workshops

There is a lot of debate around sheltered workshops and arguments in favour of these sites stress the 'valuable' experiences persons with intellectual disabilities gain through these kinds of experiences. Yet despite these claims research around employment for persons with disabilities continues to highlight the problematic nature of these sites as well as the clear benefits of more equitable employment arrangements.

The National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) recently published "Segregated & Exploited" - an extensive analysis of sheltered employment and the needs of persons with disabilities. Highlights of their study include:

* The presence of sheltered work contradicts existing policies and legislation that promote equality and inclusion;

* Sheltered work is isolating and marginalizes employees with disabilities;

* While employers benefit by not having to pay employees with disabilities the minimum wage, the conditions of this kind of 'employment' reinforce poverty for persons with disabilities (a group already experiencing disproportionate rates of poverty and economic isolation);

* Despite the promise of skills development, these kinds of experiences do not help individuals develop transferable skills.

I'll continue to post research and advocacy that is relevant to this debate as well as the findings of my own research around the unpaid contributions of persons with intellectual disabilities. The NDRN study is a great starting point to understand the concerns of advocates and allies around sheltered work.