The role of informal networks in providing effective work opportunities for people with an intellectual disability

Abstract

Being in paid employment is socially valued, and is linked to health, financial security and time use. Issues arising from a lack of occupational choice and control, and from diminished role partnerships are particularly problematic in the lives of people with an intellectual disability. Informal support networks are shown to influence work opportunities for people without disabilities, but their impact on the work experiences of people with disability has not been thoroughly explored. The experience of 'work' and preparation for work was explored with a group of four people with an intellectual disability (the participants) and the key members of their informal support networks (network members) in New South Wales, Australia. Network members and participants were interviewed and participant observations of work and other activities were undertaken. Data analysis included open, conceptual and thematic coding. Data analysis software assisted in managing the large datasets across multiple team members. The insight and actions of network members created and sustained the employment and support opportunities that effectively matched the needs and interests of the participants. Recommendations for future research are outlined.

Predictors of work participation of young adults with mild intellectual disabilities

“…Individuals with ID often need continuous assistance and support in the transition from school to work as well as on the job (Lindsay, 2011;Verdonschot et al, 2009a;Verdonschot, de Witte, Reichrath, Buntinx, & Curfs, 2009b) to be able to develop and maintain their work skills. The lack of work and of necessary support services can make these people overly dependent on family members or social protection (Davies & Beamish, 2009;Dixon & Reddacliff, 2001;Donelly et al, 2010).…”

“…Many individuals with ID desire to participate in work (Donelly et al, 2010;Eggleton, Robertson, Ryan, & Kober, 1999), which provides them with opportunities for financial independence and independent living, as well as a structured life and meaningful social participation (Dixon & Reddacliff, 2001;Eggleton et al, 1999;Grant, 2008;Jahoda et al, 2008;Lysaght, Cobigo, & Hamilton, 2012;Lysaght, Ouellette-Kuntz, et al, 2012). Work allows them to have contact with other people besides family and friends (Dixon & Reddacliff, 2001;Donelly et al, 2010;Eggleton et al, 1999;Grant, 2008;Jahoda et al, 2008;Lysaght, Cobigo, et al, 2012;Lysaght, Ouellette-Kuntz, et al, 2012) and work may help to build their self-confidence and develop their skills (Eggleton et al, 1999;Grant, 2008). A review on the socio-emotional impact of supported employment on individuals with ID, found competitive employment was positively related to quality of life, well-being and autonomy (Jahoda et al, 2008).…”

“…As factors influencing finding work by individuals with ID may differ from factors influencing maintaining employment, it is important to take sustainability of employment into account as well. Besides the lack of appropriate work outcome measures, previous studies have been cross-sectional or retrospective in design (Davies & Beamish, 2009;Donelly et al, 2010;Dunham et al, 2000;Martorell et al, 2008;Rose et al, 2005). Other studies have been explorative and qualitative (Dixon & Reddacliff, 2001;Donelly et al, 2010;Timmons et al, 2011).…”

Identifying obesity/overweight status in children and adolescents; A cross-sectional medical record review of physicians’ weight screening practice in outpatient clinics, Saudi Arabia

“…Belbins’ studies of teamwork have shown that teams perform best when employees are given clear responsibilities, and responsibilities are known to senior management. [33] Similarly, the importance of clearly defining employee tasks responsibilities and roles within a team and holding team members accountable is widely acknowledged as best management practices to increase performance and productivity within team settings. [34] Delegation of screening for BMI in patients, plotting on CDC charts at the same time growth and weight are recorded and flagging suspected cases may improve BMI documentation and hence early identification of obesity in children and adolescents.…”

Functional Measurement of Special Education Teachers’ and Students’ Expectations Toward Job Training for Persons with Intellectual Disability

“…To many adults, the idea of getting a job is a meaningful aspect of our basic life expectancy. Generally speaking, paid employment is not only a well-evaluated social concept associated with wealth, health, economic benefits, and good use of time [1] but it is also associated with psychological dimensions like self-esteem and self-concept [2,3], and strengthens both identity and the sense of self-value [4,5]. Moreover, paid employment seems to be associated with life satisfaction [6] and, even more importantly, it imposes a sense of purpose on people's daily experiences [7].…”