A few figures
- More than 15% of the citizens of the European Union are disabled;
- 80% of disabilities are not visible
- The unemployment rate among people with disabilities is twice as high as the overall unemployment rate.
- EuCIE represents 3750 inclusive enterprises in the four member states (more than 110 in Belgium, 800 in France, 880 in Germany, 1960 in Spain);
- The turnover of these enterprises amounts to nearly 4 billion euros (estimates excluding subsidies);
- According to current legislation,30 to 80% of employees in inclusive enterprises are disabeld.
Definition
Inclusive enterprises are ordinary businesses with a special status. Their business plan consists in putting economic performance at the service of social issues. They provide generally sustainable employment for people with disabilities. These workers represent a certain percentage of the establishment’s employees. This rate is not defined at European level, it varies according to national legal frameworks.
Disabled workers are common law employees, they have the same rights and obligations as other employees.
How it works
The common obligation of EuCIE member countries is to provide an appropriate framework and support. To meet this objective, most inclusive enterprises are multi-activity. Indeed, enterprises are more flexible and profitable and can redirect a worker to another job according to his or her abilities.
In support, inclusive enterprises receive subsidies or tax deductions. All EuCIE member inclusive enterprises have investment grants. In addition, a part of the wage of disabled workers is paid by the State (between 40% and 80% of the minimum wage). The indirect return on investment is positive for the State. Indeed, the savings made through the employment of disabled workers (less unemployment subsidies, relief of medical expenses, etc.) are generally higher than the expenses necessary for the development of inclusive enterprises.