Disability Action Week: A Time of Recognition and Celebration
From November 25 to December 2, 2023, Queensland will observe Disability Action Week, a significant period dedicated to honoring the contributions of individuals with disabilities. This year’s theme, ‘Access ignites: it’s good business,’ highlights the importance of integrating people with disabilities into our communities, workplaces, and economy, showcasing their invaluable impact.
Queensland Government’s Call to Action for Employers
The Queensland government is actively encouraging employers to embrace the dual benefits of accessibility. By recognizing the importance of accessible workplaces for employees with disabilities and ensuring their services are accessible to customers with disabilities, businesses can flourish in a more inclusive environment.
STEPS: Advocating for Accessibility and Employment
STEPS, a steadfast advocate for individuals with disabilities, is committed to empowering them through employment and training opportunities. Their employment programs actively support people with disabilities, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to society. The organization offers NDIS services like Work Mates’ job readiness training and job coaching, aiming to dismantle barriers and assist individuals in crafting the lives they wish to lead.
19 Years of STEPS’ Contribution and Liz Leadbeater’s Reflections
STEPS has proudly functioned as a Disability Employment Services (DES) provider for 19 years. Liz Leadbeater, STEPS General Manager of DES, reflects on the transformative impact of sustainable employment on DES clients: , “It has been a pleasure to watch the change in people’s attitudes to life and the enjoyment that comes from a weekly pay packet. We work with our clients prior to job starts to write a list of what they will be able to have through meaningful employment and what the celebration will be with the first pay. A footy game with the kids or dinner out. It’s a human right to be able to have employment, and our team has the privilege of supporting this to happen. Lives changed.”
The Growing Foundation of Diversity and Inclusion
The importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace is gaining recognition globally. According to the Australian Chamber of Commerce, studies indicate that employees with disabilities are reliable, productive, and have fewer workplace accidents compared to their peers without disabilities. They also tend to take fewer sick days.
Liz Leadbeater adds, “People with disability know they can often need a bit more training and flexibility with onboarding. They are appreciative of opportunities and once settled will not want to leave an inclusive work culture and supportive employer. As the world moves to acknowledge diversity in all walks of life, we are encouraged by those employers who choose to see all abilities and embrace diversity in the workplace,”
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STEPS Group Australia: A Committed Advocate
STEPS Group Australia has been a dedicated advocate for disability action, particularly through the DES program. Leadbeater emphasizes the importance of personalized service: “Our passion to deliver individualised service is an absolute priority. It is about the person in front of us and meeting their expectations. We start by finding what they don’t want to do and then focus on what they do want, and we make that happen. No two journeys are ever the same and their dreams are nurtured.”
Continuous Service and Support
STEPS ensures continuous support for their clients, providing consistent coaching from induction through to long-term employment, making the DES service more efficient and effective.
Learn More About STEPS Employment Solutions
For further information on how STEPS is making a difference in the lives of people with disabilities, visit www.stepsemploymentsolutions.com.au.
