Varieties of ‘new normal’: Employment experiences among youth with and without disabilities during the reopening stages of the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Working and volunteering in the reopening stages of the COVID-19 pandemic has looked different depending on the location, employment sector and nature of the job. Although researchers have begun exploring the impacts on adults, little is known about what the transition to a ‘new normal’ in the reopening stages has been like for youth, especially those with disabilities. OBJECTIVE: To explore and compare the experiences and perspectives of youth with and without disabilities who were working, volunteering or seeking work during the re-opening stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. METHODS: We used a qualitative design involving semi-structured interviews with 16 youth (seven with a disability, nine without), aged 15–29 (mean 22 years). Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. RESULTS: Five main themes were identified: (1) Mixed views on being onsite in the reopening stages; (2) Mixed views on remaining remote; (3) Hybrid model as the best of both worlds; (4) Mixed views on COVID-19 workplace safety in the reopening stages; and (5) Hopes, dreams and advice for the future. Apart from the first main theme, there were more similarities than differences between youth with and without disabilities. CONCLUSION: Our study highlights that youth encountered various work and volunteer arrangements during the reopening stages of the pandemic, and the personal preferences for particular models depend largely on their employment sector. The areas of agreement among youth highlight some longer-term impacts of the pandemic shutdowns and point to the need for greater mental health and career supports.