Employment Survey of Wheelchair Users and Influential Factors Identified in a Social Enterprise in Hong Kong

Abstract

Wheelchair users often face both physical and psychological barriers to employment due to restrictions on body movement and inadequate infrastructure in the environment. Over the years, the Hong Kong government and authorities have gradually improved barrier-free access in establishments and major transport service. Employment support has been offered in terms of job pairing, subsidies for employers, and training programs while regulation is not adopted. Individual voices of wheelchair users were usually conveyed through local community groups working to serve their needs. The collection of quantitative data on the employment situation of wheelchair users could provide evidence for representatives to address their concerns during discussions with government committees. While environmental obstructions are removable, personal barriers and motivating factors are less visible and endogenous. This collaboration project with a social enterprise has collected employment data of their members who are wheelchair users and explored factors associated with their employment prospects.