Yesterday afternoon we met with Rosie Cribb from Social Firms Wales to discuss crucial issues surrounding employment for individuals with learning disabilities and physical disabilities. The meeting focused on understanding the barriers faced by these individuals and exploring the role of Social Firm Wales in supporting their employment needs.

Social Firms Wales is an organisation dedicated to developing and supporting social enterprises across Wales, with a specific focus on creating employment opportunities for individuals who face significant barriers to entering the workforce. During the meeting, Rosie Cribb and the members discussed the specific challenges that individuals with learning and physical disabilities face when seeking employment. These barriers include:

Physical Barriers: Many workplaces are not fully accessible to individuals with physical disabilities.

Attitudinal Barriers: Discrimination and misconceptions about the capabilities of people with disabilities can result in employers being hesitant to hire them.

Learning and Cognitive Barriers: Complex job requirements and a lack of tailored training can make it difficult for individuals with learning disabilities to secure and retain employment.

Social and Communication Barriers: Individuals with disabilities may experience social isolation or communication difficulties in the workplace.

The meeting with Rosie highlighted the importance of Social Firms Wales in addressing these employment barriers through their support of social enterprises. It was lovely to see Rosie, and we’ll see her again soon.