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Supported employment in Scotland: some issues from research and implications for development
- Authors:
- HUNTER Susan, RIDLEY Julie
- Journal article citation:
- Tizard Learning Disability Review, 12(2), April 2007, pp.3-13.
- Publisher:
- Emerald
This article arises from the authors' experience of undertaking research for the Scottish Executive, following the deliberations of a national working group focusing on employment set up to progress the recommendations of the 'Same as You?' review, Scotland’s equivalent of 'Valuing People'. The article aims to contribute to a debate about the achievements and under-achievements of supported employment in the contemporary Scottish context. The research findings are used to discuss where we are now, some of the main problems, and how policy and practice need to move forward and develop. The author suggest that the time is right to initiate a strategic change in policy and professional practice. Supported employment must be firmly embedded in the wider employment landscape and the practice agenda of professionals, in order to ensure that real, paid jobs in integrated settings become a routine for people with learning disabilities who express these aspirations.
"Go for it!": supporting people with learning disabilities and/or autistic spectrum disorder in employment
- Authors:
- RIDLEY Julie, HUNTER Susan, INFUSION CO-OPERATIVE
- Publisher:
- Scotland. Scottish Executive. Social Research
- Publication year:
- 2005
- Pagination:
- 114p., bibliog.
- Place of publication:
- Edinburgh
This report aimed to investigate the employment support available for people with learning disabilities or autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) in paid and unpaid jobs in Scotland. The study aimed to map the nature and availability of employment support; to identify aspects of good practice; and to explore the direct experiences of individuals and their families. The study used both quantitative and qualitative methods and involved a review of the literature published in the past 5 years; telephone interviews with 10 key stakeholders; a postal questionnaire survey of 204 employment support providers; in-depth qualitative interviews with 15 supported employees, their families and 10 employees. The report concludes that there is some way to go before the aspirations of people with learning disabilities or ASD for real paid jobs are met. Examples of good practice were identified and, while the results were life changing for the individuals involved and their families, supported employment as originally intended was not being put into practice. There is a need for a more strategic and coordinated approach to developing and funding supported employment in Scotland so that its implementation can be more widespread.