Working Beyond Your Disability
Life is already tough as it is, so imagine doing it with a disability. All the things, such as meeting deadlines, crunching numbers, or analysing, can be a struggle for a disabled person. Even just getting a job can be a challenge. Unfortunately, there still exists a stigma against employing people with disabilities. Many employers are doubtful that someone with a disability can be useful at all. Luckily, if you or someone you care is struggling to find employment, you can have an NDIS registered provider help you in your search for professional and personal stability.
Employment and Disabilities
People had come a long way in socio-political issues. The same goes for people with disabilities. Previously, everyone saw disability as a defect that can hinder someone from “normal” activities. Thus, someone with a disability, whether physical or neurological, can likely expect rejection in school or work. Fortunately, this mindset has changed in the past few decades, and even more so in the last twenty years. According to the Australian Network on Disability, one in five people has a disability. There are 2.1 million disabled Australians of working age. Only 47.8% of these people are employed.
In contrast, around 80.3% of non-disabled Australians are employed. If the current statistics show that only less than half of disabled Australians are employed, imagine how low this number would have been previously due to the stigma. What is even promising is that of the employed disabled Australians; 34% are professionals or in managerial professions.
Discover Yourself
The numbers and trends for persons with disabilities are encouraging, but there is still a long road to removing stigma and discrimination. If you or someone you know had an accident or born with something that makes them different from the “normal,” they deserve help reintegrating into society. An NDIS registered provider can assist with that.
When it comes to finding a job, some disabled people feel that their disabilities reduce the typical traits employers seek. For example, someone in the autism spectrum may feel like their condition somehow hinders their ability to work in a team or under pressure. Not only is this untrue, but it may even be the opposite. There are countless examples of autistic professionals. Some of the oldies from the 19th and 20th centuries include scientists like Henry Cavendish, Charles Darwin, and Albert Einstein. When it comes to other disabilities like Asperger’s Syndrome and multiple sclerosis, include the late scientist Stephen Hawking and NBA player Chris Wright.
These people show that their “disabilities” are in no way a hindrance to their capabilities. Unfortunately, psychological trauma may make it difficult to realise this, and this is one of the many ways an NDIS registered provider can help. They work with you to realise your capabilities beyond your “disabilities.” If you have never worked before, they can train you in preparation for your first job. Some will even help you find your ideal work environment. When you show up to your first day, they help you maintain and even progress in it.
A disability is not a “disability.” It should not define who you are; neither should it be a hindrance. It is merely an extra trait of difference, like height or skin colour. With the right help, you can surpass your difference and reintegrate yourself back to society.
Barry Lachey is a Professional Editor at Zobuz. Previously He has also worked for Moxly Sports and Network Resources “Joe Joe.” He is a graduate of the Kings College at the University of Thames Valley London. You can reach Barry via email or by phone.
