People with acquired physical disabilities in Greece in recession: How do they cope with issues of vocational (re-)integration?

Abstract

BACKGROUND: This paper draws upon a broader empirical qualitative research about the educational and vocational (re-)integration of people with acquired physical disabilities in Greece. OBJECTIVE: Perceived motives and barriers, under the shadow of recession, coping mechanisms as well as the contribution of state, rehabilitation specialists and significant others on the return to the labor market of people with acquired physical disabilities in Greece of crisis are investigated. METHODS:The research was carried out using a focus group with 6 persons and focused semi-structured interviews with 20 persons, members of the Greek Association of Paraplegics and the Greek Company of Multiple Sclerosis. RESULTS: According to the main findings work makes people with acquired physical disabilities (PwAPD) feel useful and creative contributing to their physical and psychological rehabilitation. Despite the significant barriers they encounter, additionally burdened by the recession, e.g. no job offer, limited accessibility, discrimination, educational deficiencies, PwAPD succeeded in developing strategies to overcome their vocational (re-)integration barriers mainly via education, resistance to discriminatory attitudes and the support of the significant others. CONCLUSION: Despite of the existing barriers, affected by the financial crisis, PwAPD, still fight for their re-inclusion to social life, being equipped with a positive attitude. Still, the Greek State along with rehabilitation and relevant services should become more active and flexible to effectively support and empower this right fight.