At School, At Work

Disabled employment promoted

(February 29, 2016)

The Government will launch three pilot projects this year to further promote the employment of those with disabilities as well as an inclusive culture for a more caring society, Secretary for Labour & Welfare Matthew Cheung says.
 
He was speaking at the 2015-16 Talent-Wise Employment Charter & Inclusive Organisations Recognition Scheme award ceremony today.
 
Mr Cheung said the pilot schemes include raising the maximum level of disregarded earnings for recipients with disabilities under the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance Scheme; providing an additional grant for higher Disability Allowance recipients who are in paid employment to employ carers; and strengthening the counselling and employment services offered by the Labour Department to job seekers with disabilities.
 
He noted that the Government has been adopting a three-pronged approach to promote the employment of people with disabilities, including providing occupational rehabilitation and training services, job-matching services in the open market and creating job opportunities by promoting the setting up of social enterprises.
 
The department launched the Support Programme for Employees with Disabilities in 2013, giving employers subsidies to procure assistive devices and workplace modifications for disabled employees.
 
So far 509 organisations, including 114 small and medium enterprises, have joined the scheme.
 
Today's event was part of the "Appreciate Hong Kong" Campaign and aims to give recognition to organisations for their efforts in introducing innovative measures to enhance the employment opportunities of those with disabilities and to pay tribute to outstanding mentors.
 
Participating organisations and employees also spoke about their experiences during sharing sessions. 
 
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