The need is great – every seventh company in the Münster chamber district wants more guidance regarding inclusion in the workplace.

The need is great – one in seven businesses in the Münster Chamber of Commerce district would like more guidance regarding inclusion in the workplace. (Photo: © stylephotographs/123RF.com)

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HWK Münster and LWL strengthen inclusion

On the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the Münster Chamber of Skilled Crafts and Trades highlights the importance of inclusive employment.

Managing Director Markus Hartmann welcomes Zornitza Ivanov as the new inclusion consultant at the Münster Chamber of Skilled Crafts. Photo: © Teamfoto MarquardtManaging Director Markus Hartmann welcomes Zornitza Ivanov as the new inclusion consultant at the Münster Chamber of Skilled Crafts. Photo: © Teamfoto Marquardt

"Inclusion is not only socially beneficial, it is also economically sound" – the Münster Chamber of Skilled Crafts is certain of this, not only on the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3rd.

The chamber has further expanded its commitment: The Inclusion consulting was joined by an additional expert – Zornitza Ivanov now strengthens the work of Claudia Stremming and Jörg Janzen.

The three-person team supports inclusive businesses across all sectors throughout Westphalia with business management issues. The service, which aims to improve career prospects for people with disabilities, is offered in cooperation with the LWL Inclusion Office for Work offered.

The same applies to the specialist advice for inclusion, which is also located at the Chamber of Skilled Crafts, within the framework of the "Single Points of Contact for Employers" (EPA)Here you can get advice. Annette Averesch Craft businesses that wish to employ or train people with disabilities, for example regarding financial support options, legal conditions and the design of suitable workplaces.

LWL Social Affairs Officer Mehmet Ali He emphasized: "We leave no one behind. This is both the core of democracy and a societal responsibility. The close cooperation between the LWL and the Münster Chamber of Skilled Crafts shows what is possible when we not only lament barriers but also dismantle them. Every job created is a victory for dignity, self-determination, and social justice."

For the Münster Chamber of Skilled Crafts, inclusion is an integral part of a future-oriented personnel strategy for companies. "There is a large, often overlooked talent pool here for recruiting skilled workers," says Managing Director Markus Hartmann. Inclusion means integrating people with disabilities into everyday work as equally qualified professionals. This can also strengthen the company's image.

A recent flash survey conducted by the Chamber of Skilled Crafts, in which 185 craft businesses from the chamber's district participated, paints a clear picture of the prevailing sentiment. One in ten businesses reports that an owner has a recognized disability. Almost half of the surveyed companies already employ people with disabilities. This employment takes place in various areas, primarily in production and administration. 57 percent report predominantly positive or very positive experiences.

High demand for information

At the same time, the survey reveals a high demand for information: one in seven businesses would like guidance, especially regarding funding opportunities and legal aspects. One in five plans to employ people with disabilities. 39 percent are still undecided on this matter. The results illustrate that inclusion is already being successfully practiced in the skilled trades, but further support remains necessary, the Chamber of Skilled Crafts commented.

In Westphalia-Lippe, around 25.000 severely disabled people are unemployed. Approximately 170 inclusive businesses and departments, including 19 craft businesses in the Münster Chamber district, employ a total of 4.350 people, half of whom are people with disabilities. The LWL (Regional Association of Westphalia-Lippe) finances the Chamber of Skilled Crafts' advisory services, which are available to businesses free of charge. 

Background: Inclusion Here you can find all further information from the Münster Chamber of Skilled Crafts and Trades regarding the topic of inclusion. 

DHB now also digital!Simply click here and register for the digital German Crafts Journal (DHB)!Further news from the district of the Chamber of Crafts Münster

Text: / handwerksblatt.de

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