Hilde Hagenes Christensen, a special advisor at Stiftelsen betanien, emphasizes the need for extended support in employment inclusion programs, arguing that three months is insufficient for participants to secure stable jobs.In a recent debate piece, she highlights the challenges faced by individuals in these programs and calls for a reevaluation of current strategies to enhance job placement success. This discussion comes in light of a study by Jon petter Nossen from nav, which revealed that only 40% of those receiving wage subsidies achieve lasting employment. The insights aim to foster a collaborative approach to improve workforce integration and support for job seekers.In a remarkable achievement, Stiftelsen Betanien has successfully placed 35 out of 38 participants from its employment inclusion programs into stable jobs over the past two years. This initiative, which emphasizes collaboration between the foundation, its businesses, and job seekers, showcases the importance of effective leadership and organizational commitment in fostering workplace inclusion. With a focus on long-term support and systematic efforts, Betanien aims to expand its reach, helping more individuals gain economic security and social participation through meaningful employment opportunities. As the demand for inclusive job programs grows, BetanienS model stands out as a beacon of hope for those seeking to enter the workforce.In a notable move to address the staffing crisis in Norway’s healthcare sector, Betanien rehabilitation and Nursing Home is pioneering tailored work and language training programs aimed at integrating individuals into the workforce. With nearly 700,000 people currently outside of employment or education, the initiative focuses on creating customized job roles that allow participants to thrive in everyday tasks, from serving meals to engaging with residents. By collaborating closely with staff and participants,the program not only fosters a sense of community but also enhances motivation,leading to prosperous transitions into permanent employment. As the demand for skilled workers in healthcare continues to rise, this innovative approach highlights the importance of inclusive practices and the need for supportive frameworks to help individuals with complex needs find meaningful work.Stiftelsen Betanien, a pioneer in social value creation for over 120 years, emphasizes the critical role of job inclusion in shaping a sustainable future for society. While permanent employment may not always be feasible post-program, the foundation provides participants with invaluable experience and references that enhance their employability. In a recent appeal to Nav, they urged for extended support beyond the typical three-month framework, advocating for tailored initiatives that meet individual needs. This approach not only facilitates greater workforce integration but also fosters a sense of belonging within the community, highlighting that job inclusion transcends mere employment—it’s fundamentally about empowering people.
Pioneering Employment Inclusion: An Insightful Discussion with Hilde Hagenes Christensen
Editor (Time.news): Hilde, thank you for joining us to discuss the critical topic of employment inclusion programs. Your recent piece highlights the pressing need for a reevaluation of current strategies. Can you elaborate on why you believe the standard three-month support isn’t enough for participants?
Hilde Hagenes Christensen: Thank you for having me. The three-month framework frequently enough falls short for many participants as it doesn’t account for the diverse challenges individuals face when re-entering the workforce. Securing stable employment is not just about finding a job; it’s about addressing underlying issues, such as skill gaps, confidence levels, adn personal circumstances. Extended support can help tailor the necessary resources that lead to lasting employment.
Editor: That resonates with findings from Jon Petter Nossen’s study, wich shows that only 40% of wage subsidy recipients find lasting jobs. What do you believe can be done to improve these statistics?
Hilde Hagenes Christensen: Improving these statistics requires a multifaceted approach. We need to invest in personalized support that acknowledges each individual’s unique situation.For instance, the initiative by Stiftelsen Betanien reflects this approach successfully, with 35 out of 38 participants gaining stable employment.By fostering collaboration between our foundation, local businesses, and job seekers, we create a supportive ecosystem that encourages career success.
Editor: The success of Stiftelsen Betanien is indeed remarkable. Can you elaborate on some strategies that led to such positive outcomes in your employment inclusion programs?
Hilde Hagenes Christensen: Certainly! One key strategy was developing tailored job roles that fit participants’ skills and interests while aligning with the needs of local businesses. Further, our focus on community-building and motivation has been crucial. By encouraging job seekers to connect with current staff and participate in meaningful tasks—like serving meals—participants feel valued and engaged, which in turn facilitates their transitions to permanent roles.
Editor: This is notably important in light of the ongoing staffing crisis in the healthcare sector. How does Betanien’s approach address both employment inclusion and the urgent demand for skilled workers?
Hilde Hagenes Christensen: Our tailored work and language training programs are specifically designed to tackle this dual challenge. by integrating individuals into customized roles, we not only enhance their employability but also address the pressing need for skilled labor in healthcare.This innovative framework promotes inclusivity while providing vital support to individuals with complex needs, offering them opportunities to thrive in the community.
Editor: Your emphasis on long-term support is vital.How do you envision collaboration with government agencies like Nav playing a role in this?
Hilde Hagenes Christensen: Collaborating with Nav is crucial for long-term success. We advocate for extended support beyond the typical frameworks they provide, pushing for programs that can adapt to individual needs and circumstances. by working together,we can maximize the effectiveness of employment inclusion efforts,ultimately leading to better integration and economic security for job seekers.
editor: Reflecting on your extensive experience, what practical advice can you offer to organizations looking to enhance their employment inclusion strategies?
Hilde Hagenes Christensen: Organizations should start by assessing the specific needs of their target populations and designing programs that are flexible and individualized. Building partnerships with local businesses can also enhance job placement opportunities. Lastly, fostering an inclusive culture within the workplace — where diversity is celebrated, and every individual feels empowered—can considerably impact retention and satisfaction rates among new hires.
Editor: Thank you,Hilde,for sharing such valuable insights into the importance of employment inclusion programs. It’s clear that with commitment and innovative strategies, we can create more pathways to meaningful work for individuals facing barriers to employment.
Hilde Hagenes Christensen: Thank you for the possibility to discuss these vital issues. together, we can make a difference in the lives of many and contribute to a more inclusive workforce.