Fujian’s first sheltered workshop started its first career fair in Fuzhou on July 11. In this build-up to its official opening on July 20, 142 disabled people found jobs at local enterprises.

This sheltered workshop belongs to the Qineng Research and Consultant Center, in Cangshan District of Fuzhou. The center covers an area of 23 mu, or 15,333 square meters. It includes a care center for mentally challenged individuals beside the shelter factory. The sheltered workshop, on the other hand, consists of a workshop, a farm and a shop.

Liang Jiahui, the manager of the workshop, said that they provided shelter for the disabled mainly with favorable policies. For example, they provide free workshops and other basics to all the enterprises that may recruit the disabled, but also require them to assure the workers of basic wages and corporate benefits.

The physically challenged individuals are allowed to receive free skill training in the workshop, and when they master the skills, they can find jobs outside or start their own businesses with support from the local government. As for the companies in the sheltered workshop, the government will also provide subsidies if the need arises.

Tips

According to Wikipedia, a sheltered workshop is an organization that provides employment opportunities for people with disabilities and/or those from disadvantaged backgrounds, such as ethnic minority groups, the chronically unemployed, and those returning to the workforce after a period of rehabilitation. The word “sheltered” refers to a protective environment where disadvantaged people can undertake paid and meaningful employment in a supportive environment.

By Xu Xinlei & Luo Jiao