Human resource management practices and disability workers

Abstract

This study explores the human resource management (HRM) practices, in particular the training and development that impacts on students with intellectual disabilities enrolled in a registered training program. O’Brien’s (1989) five dimensions of social inclusion provide the theoretical framework for this study. The study illuminates the use of HRM practices, managerial and trainer efforts that promote students’ relationships, their dignity in social roles, community presence and contributions, and how the ways they exercise control. Themes highlight that the management and training support for workers with disabilities is critical to their performance and employment opportunities. As governments around the world seek to reduce welfare costs and increase the employment of people with disabilities this paper is timely. Overall, the paper contributes to a dearth of literature on the management and training of people with disabilities to unpack the key barriers, challenges and successes.