Supported employment programme

Working on the principals of inclusion, diversity in the workforce and equal opportunities.

Supported Employment supports people with disabilities to access employment and work experience opportunities in the community. 

The Supported Employment Programme provides ongoing one-to-one support for people with disabilities in job finding, job training, job retention and career development. 

Supported Employment works on the principals of inclusion, diversity in the workforce and equal opportunities.  This inclusive model has proven to be beneficial to employers and employees alike. 

New Directions and Community Inclusion

The New Directions Policy was developed in partnership by the HSE, people with disabilities and their families. It promotes choice, person centeredness and community inclusion. Highlighted in the research is the importance and choice for people with disabilities to be included in the workforce and be more active members in their communities.

This in turn has inspired the development of the Supported Employment Programme to work with the men and woman of the Festina Lente Saol Anois Day Service and support them in achieving individual goals.

How does Supported Employment benefit the Employer?

The Wage Subsidy Scheme provides funding of €5.30 per hour to companies who employ people with disabilities for 20 hours or more.

• Wage Subsidy of €5.30 per hour
• NMW rate €10.20 per hour
• Net cost to employer €4.90 per hour
• Net cost to employer 21 hours = €102.90 vs. €214.20

A job coach works with the employer and employee to provide any supports necessary.

A Job Coach is a trained and experienced employment and disability professional who works one-to-one with employers and jobseekers. Festina Lente will allocate a job coach to provide ongoing support to each employee/employer.

The Job Coach will deliver Disability Awareness Training to potential employers and staff.

The Job Coach will also provide information and support to employers in accessing government grants and setting up wage subsidy schemes.

Our Supported Employment Services are provided free of charge.

Research has shown a diverse workforce fosters innovation, boosts staff morale and leads to increased productivity.

Be a leader in your community and an ambassador for social inclusion. Certificate will be presented to advertise your business as socially inclusive.

The Job Coach will deliver disability awareness training to staff free of charge at the request of the employer.

If your business or company would like to get involved please contact:

Sabrina Tierney
Training Programme Manager
Tel: (01) 2720704 ext 207
Email: sabrina.tierney@festinalente.ie

Festina Lente
Old Connaught Avenue, Bray,
Co Wicklow, A98 F702
Charity Number: CHY16821