Sheltered Employment

A form of employment in which people with disabilities work in a segregated setting, separate from the general labour market, typically under supervised conditions and often for below-minimum wage. Sheltered workshops were historically the primary employment model for people with significant disabilities. The model has been increasingly criticized by disability rights advocates who argue it perpetuates segregation, limits career development, and undervalues the contributions of disabled workers. Many countries are transitioning toward supported employment models that integrate people with disabilities into competitive, community-based workplaces with appropriate accommodations.