🔒How to create a supportive workplace for individuals with intellectual disability

In recent years, the national unemployment rate for individuals with intellectual disability has hit a record low, driven in large part by demand for workers and the COVID-19 pandemic creating new opportunities for those who have long faced barriers to employment.

An estimated 6.5 million Americans have an intellectual disability, which is 1% to 3% of the total U.S. population. Data from the Maine Department of Labor indicates the unemployment rate for individuals with a disability was 12.2% compared to 3.9% for adults without a disability between 2017-21.

While most adults with intellectual disability are unemployed or underemployed, the fact is they can successfully stay employed; 62% of people who work in a competitive setting have been there three or more years. I have seen it firsthand as support services manager at Bank of America in Belfast, where many of our more than 50 teammates have been employed for years.

To create a supportive workplace for individuals with ID, Maine businesses must focus on creating an environment that values their unique skills, experiences, and perspectives.

Have a support team in place

Establishing a team dedicated to creating a supportive workplace is essential. Whether the team is comprised of HR representatives, direct managers, or other key contacts, having a support system allows for a successful operation across the business. At Bank of America, this is our Employee Relations team. The Employee Relations team works directly with our Support Services team, which handles marketing and fulfillment operations, including graphic arts, printing, and inventory management services.

Embrace diversity

Employees with disabilities bring unique skills, experiences, and perspectives to the table, which can lead to new ideas, innovations, and ways of solving problems. Ultimately, embracing diversity and different perspectives can lead to a stronger business.

Maine labor statistics show only 34% of individuals within Maine’s working-age population that had one or more disabilities were employed compared to 81% of the working-age population without a disability from 2017 through 2021. Individuals who have hearing or vision impairments are more frequently employed compared to those who have other types of disabilities.

At Bank of America, we’re focused on creating an environment where all employees, including those with disabilities, have an opportunity to succeed and achieve their goals. Our practices make business sense.

It is important to recognize that creating a supportive workplace for people with disabilities requires a commitment to ongoing learning, training, and education. Maine businesses should strive to educate themselves and their employees about disability awareness and the unique needs and perspectives of individuals with disabilities.

Engage with community groups

Many of our Support Services employees are also accomplished Special Olympics athletes. Partnering with nonprofit organizations like Special Olympics or other advocates for individuals with disabilities is not only a great way to show support for your employees, it can also provide your business with a wealth of expertise and resources to improve disability inclusion practices. Working with local schools can help staff identify opportunities for their students to develop skills and help them succeed in the workforce.

Additionally, agencies can connect your business with potential job candidates as you continue to expand your business and create a more supportive environment. In Maine, the counties with the highest share of individuals with disabilities are Piscataquis, Washington, Somerset, and Aroostook according to the Maine Department of Labor.

Brian Bragg is support service manager for Bank of America in Belfast.