Wednesday, February 21, 1973
EMPLOYMENT OF THE DISABLED
20 Take Up Positions In "Open" Employment Last Month
Twenty disabled trainees in the care of the Social Welfare
Department took up positions in "open" employment during January, according
to figures released today by the Job Placement Unit.
"Open" in this context is competitive employment in industry
and commercial firms, as distinct from the "sheltered" employment available
in departmental workshops.
Of the 20, eight were crippled, six deaf, five formerly mentally
ill, and one mentally retarded.
They were found jobs in various categories. One became an office
boy; another worked as a cashier, Two were engaged as telephone operators,
and one as a typist. Others were employed as general factory workers,
scavengers, sewers and packers.
Mr. Chan Shiu-wing, Officer in charge, said January's placements
were rather fewer than usual because of the approach of the Lunar New Year.
Prospective employers had preferred to await the conclusion of the holidays
before taking on new staff,
Note to Editors:
Members of the press, radio and TV are invited to tour the Job Placement Unit, in the World Rehabilitation Fund Day Centre, on Friday, February 23 to see how trainees are made ready for placement. Press representatives will also be able to see training facilities at the Centre, and call on a factory where a number of disabled are working. Transport will be provided. Government vans AM5008 and AM3201 will await the Press in the Tsim Sha Tsui sub pool at 10 a.m. Departmental officers will be on hand to assist the Press.
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