Released on October 2, 2017
October has been proclaimed Disability Employment Awareness Month (DEAM) by the Government of Saskatchewan.Diverse workplaces enhance the labour force and create social and economic inclusion for people experiencing disabilities. Proclaiming the month provides the opportunity to share the benefits that an inclusive labour market has on Saskatchewan businesses and communities. DEAM also provides awareness for the strategies, services and resources available to employers, educators and job seekers.
“All of us want to make sure people can reach their potential to succeed whether it is in training or employment opportunities,” Economy Minister Steven Bonk said. “We all benefit when the labour market is more inclusive as it helps reduce barriers to employment while at the same time, helps grow Saskatchewan’s economy.”
The Disability Strategy was released by the Government of Saskatchewan in June of 2015. The prime focus of the strategy includes awareness and information about people experiencing disabilities, accessibility legislation, service co-ordination and navigation, respite, transportation and residential services.
“Through the Saskatchewan Disability Strategy, we are working to create a socially and economically inclusive province for individuals with disabilities,” Social Services Minister Paul Merriman said. “Disability Employment Awareness Month is an opportunity to highlight this work, as we continue our journey on making a more accessible and inclusive province for everyone.”
“People experiencing disabilities can offer valuable skills to the workplace,” SARC Executive Director Amy McNeil said. “Many Saskatchewan businesses are realizing the economic advantage that employees experiencing disabilities provide, such as increasing retention rates and enhancing corporate cultures. This Disability Employment Awareness Month we are creating awareness by celebrating inclusive employers across Saskatchewan who impact their communities through inclusive hiring.”
To learn more about inclusive employment, visit EmployLink at www.employlink.ca.
This website can help employers meet labour market needs by connecting with employment professionals. It also provides resources for employers, educators and job seekers.
SARC will be hosting a Celebrate Success Banquet in Saskatoon on October 25.For more details on this event and other DEAM information and resources, visit the SARC website at https://www.sarcsarcan.ca/pages/deam.
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For more information, contact:
Deb Young
Economy
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4765
Email: deb.young@gov.sk.ca
Nicole Linzmeyer
SARC
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-933-0616 ext. 252
Email: nlinzmeyer@sarcan.sk.ca
Leya Moore
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-3610
Email: leya.moore@gov.sk.ca