Carmen Tan, 23, has autism but she is thriving at speciality coffee company Foreword Coffee. The company has accommodated her with initiatives such as printing laminated instructions, simplifying processes and providing job flexibility. It hires 14 people with conditions ranging from autism to hearing disability across its three cafes, and has 18 staff in total.

“The laminated cards help to remind me of processes and questions to ask, like if customers want takeaway drinks or if they are eligible for a discount”, said Carmen.

Foreword Coffee, which is also a social enterprise, was one of the examples cited in a job redesign guide developed by SG Enable in collaboration with the Ministry of Manpower to help firms be more inclusive.

Job redesign involves reviewing work responsibilities and environments, simplifying processes and developing solutions that can improve an employee’s performance and safety.

Minister of State for Manpower and National Development Zaqy Mohamad pointed to grants and support for employers to hire those with special needs, such as the Open Door Programme, a government-funded initiative by the Ministry of Social and Family Development and Workforce Singapore.

Case studies in the guide can also inspire other employers by showing that they can have a successful business while incorporating staff with special needs, he added.

Read more here.

 

Source: The Straits Times, 18 June 2019