Economic Empowerment

Disability and unemployment

In every country around the world, people with disabilities – especially those living in the world’s poorest communities – have higher rates of unemployment than anyone else. In some countries, this is as high as 80%, putting them among the poorest of the world’s population.

Why are people with disabilities being excluded from earning a living?

• Many people with disabilities living in the world’s poorest communities lack access to quality education which means they don’t gain the skills they need to earn a living.
• Stigma against people with disabilities means they are excluded from employment opportunities. It’s a vicious cycle that needs to end.
• People with disabilities who live in poverty have limited access to resources, support or finances to help them start businesses or generate any income.

Our Work

We work alongside people with disabilities in some of the world’s poorest countries to build and sustain livelihoods. Alongside our local partners, we support people with disabilities in getting a job or starting their own business.

• We offer vocational and practical training so that people with disabilities can learn life skills, build confidence and access employment.
• We empower people with disabilities, often through one-on-one support, embrace their abilities and their role within communities.
• We provide essential start-up resources to help people with disabilities set up or expand businesses. Small loans or equipment like sewing machines or computers can mean people can fulfil their full potential and set themselves and their families up for a better future.
• We support accessibility in the workplace – whether national employers or small-scale enterprises – ensuring that people with disabilities can thrive within them.