Fears re sheltered workshops allayed

7/4/94

Disability Services Minister Kevin Minson has moved to allay fears that sheltered workshops would be phased out.

He said today he supported people with disabilities having all employment options available - including sheltered workshops.

Mr Minson said Deputy Prime Minister and Federal Community Services Minister Brian Howe had given him a verbal undertaking last month that sheltered workshops would not be closed.

He said Mr Howe supported the Western Australian program of choice of employment for people with disabilities.

While the issue of sheltered workshops was a Federal responsibility under the Commonwealth/State Disability Agreement Mr Minson said he was firmly in favour of their retention.

There were no plans to close sheltered workshops which provided important employment options for people with disabilities.

"I strongly believe people with disabilities should have options and alternatives in employment," Mr Minson said.

"These are available through the Post School Options Program, competitive or sheltered employment or a combination of all three.

"It goes without saying that some people with a disability would not feel confident enough to enter the competitive work environment - particularly those with an intellectual disability.

"Consequently, governments must be sensitive to their needs and all options must remain open."

Mr Minson said the Post School Options Program for school leavers with disabilities allowed them and their families to design their own programs and activities.

He said it also provided options which covered competitive and supported employment and recreation.

It provided real options to individual needs.

Media contact:  Diana Callander 321 2222 or 222 9595