Promoting a person-centred approach to vocational services for adults with disabilities in Singapore

Abstract

Person-centred approaches reflect a relatively new paradigm in the field of disability that endeavours to support people with disabilities to achieve quality lifestyles and desirable futures. These approaches offer a contrast and alternative to traditional and more system-centred vocational services that often limit the support and honouring of individual aspirations, strengths and preferences. Evidence in the international literature has documented the successful use of person-centred approaches for achieving desirable work experiences for people with disabilities in vocational activities as well as other types of services. This paper describes the process and outcomes of using a person-centred framework to restructure a vocational service in Singapore to emphasise greater autonomy and choice in work opportunities and experiences for individuals with intellectual and/or physical disabilities. Suggestions and recommendations are provided to guide future efforts to convert vocational services through a person-centred approach.