Hundreds of people with disabilities will be able to achieve greater independence and find meaningful employment, thanks to the extension of the Province's popular Technology@Work program. More than 1,140 people have already accessed Technology@Work, where people with disabilities can get the assistive technology they need for employment. A $2-million investment from the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction and $1 million from the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training will support the one-year extension of the program, which has been operated by the Neil Squire Society since May 2015. "People with disabilities have the skills and talents that many B.C. employers are looking for," said Shane Simpson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. "Everyone in B.C. deserves an equal opportunity at finding meaningful employment, and the extension of this program will give people continued access to the technology they need. Our government's commitment to keep funding programs like Technology@Work is a win for us all," said Melanie Mark, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training. "This funding helps people with disabilities access the technology they need to thrive in the workplace, and lifts our society up as a whole, benefiting all British Columbians."
Jack McAllen, a visual effects artist, has benefited from the Technology@Work program. Born with a hearing impairment, further deterioration to his hearing was making it increasingly difficult for him to receive feedback on his work - an important part of any job. "I definitely feel like now I actually have a future," McAllen said. "Now, I don't have to worry about not being able to hear people. It has definitely boosted my future employment opportunities." The program has provided assistive technologies, such as mobility supports, alternative keyboards, voice input equipment and workplace modifications to people provincewide. The Neil Squire Society also provides expertise and advice to employers who are, or want to be, more accessible and inclusive.
September 2017 marked the fourth-annual Disability Employment Month in B.C., celebrating the contributions of people with disabilities in the workforce, and the employers and communities who support their success. About 334,000 British Columbians, ages 15 to 64, self-identify as having a disability. 47% of Canadians with disabilities aged 15 to 64 years are employed, compared to 74% of people without disabilities.