Forum: Inclusive hiring is both a social responsibility and business opportunity
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The article “‘The ground is not ready’: PWDs, caregivers raise concerns over finding jobs and staying employed” (July 12) raises important concerns about the employment journey of people with disabilities and reflects an ongoing conversation on how Singapore can build more inclusive workplaces.
Singapore has made progress in promoting inclusive employment and supporting people with disabilities as they transition into work. While barriers remain, there has been encouraging progress. Some individuals still face limited access to work exposure, transition support or employer understanding, but more employers are recognising the value of inclusive hiring and taking steps to do it well.
Inclusive hiring is both a social responsibility and a business opportunity. By widening their talent pool, employers can strengthen workforce resilience and build teams that better reflect the diverse communities they serve. People with disabilities bring skills, commitment and perspectives that can enrich workplace culture and service delivery.
Research has also shown that disability inclusion can support stronger business outcomes, including improved employee engagement, greater innovation and stronger organisational performance.
At the same time, we have met employers who are willing to hire inclusively but are unsure where to begin. Questions about suitable job roles, workplace adjustments and supporting supervisors and co-workers are common. These are valid concerns, but employers need not navigate them alone.
Job placement and job support agencies such as SPD partner employers throughout this journey. We help people with disabilities identify their strengths, build employability skills and prepare for work.
We also support employers in understanding their manpower needs, identifying accessible roles, exploring internships or work trials, and matching candidates to suitable opportunities. This can include worksite accessibility assessments, job redesign and workplace accommodation advice, disability awareness training and onboarding support through job coaching.
SPD’s support extends beyond job placement. We journey with both employer and employees with disabilities into the job, gradually tapering support as the employee gains confidence and independence in the job.
The CPF Board and Fei Siong Group are among our valued partners in inclusive hiring, showing how employers can create meaningful opportunities for people with disabilities.
We encourage more employers to take the first step. While no one may have all the answers at the outset, openness, practical support and a willingness to adapt can help build workplaces where people are valued for their abilities and supported to reach their full potential.
Abhimanyau Pal
Chief Executive Officer
SPD
