A new initiative is set to pave a pathway connecting people with disabilities and health conditions with eager employers in our region.
Disability Issues Minister Nicky Wagner last night launched EmployAbility, an employment programme to assist people with health conditions and disabilities into work in the Bay of Plenty.
Thenew initiative means Work and Income will match clients with a health condition or disability to jobs that suit their particular skills.
"Once a person gets a job, we'll offer ongoing support to them and their employer, to help ensure it's successful for everyone," Ms Wagner said.
She said EmployAbility was an extension of the successful Christchurch-based employment programme, Project 300, which saw 584 people get into work.
"What we learnt from Project 300 is that engaging with and supporting both employers and employees helps to form a mutually beneficial relationship. It's about matching the right person to the right job.
"People with health conditions and disabilities tell me that they want the same opportunity to work that other people have and that having a job is important to them," Ms Wagner said.
Ministry of Social Development regional commissioner Mike Bryant said it was a great step for the region.
"The more people that can be connected to opportunities that have aspirations and hopes for their life the better for everybody. It's effectively a win, win for employees and employers."
