July 1, 2009 PM: Visit Tokyo Vocational Center for Persons with Disabilities
Training Report - Decent work course
After saying “good bye” to Swan Bakery Akasaka shop, all participants took a subway from Akasaka to Ueno to visit Tokyo Vocational Center for persons with disabilites. It was a good opportunity for them to check accessibility of public transportation in Tokyo.
Director, Assistant Director, and Head Supervisor welcomed them at the entrance of the center. After the welcome speech by Director, Assistant Director explained the role of this center.
Local Vocational Centers for Persons with Disabilities are located throughout Japan. The Center provides the vocational rehabilitation services such as vocational evaluation, vocational guidance, work preparation support, OA training courses and evaluation of individuals with intellectual and severe intellectual disabilities, in close cooperation with local Public Employment Security Offices and other related institutions. The center also provides services specific to employers such as consultation, assistance and employment management support. “Job coach system” is one of the effective supports.
In order that persons with intellectual and mental disabilities can adapt smoothly to the workplace, job coaches will be dispatched to the workplace and meticulous personnel support carried out. Job coaches are stationed at Local Vocational Center for Persons with Disabilities implementing support. Not only the centers but also social welfare foundation or employers station job coaches and carry out support by using the Grant for Job Coaches in cooperation with the Local Vocational Center for Persons with Disabilities.
According to the annual statistics the center provided various kinds of services to 2,291 persons with disabilities in fiscal year 2008. The participants found out the important role of Tokyo Vocational Center in Tokyo area for persons with disabilities.
Head Supervisor and vocational counselor showed the participants around the center. And six participants became interested in vocational evaluation methods. They could try and experience different tools and learn how to use them.
Director, Assistant Director, and Head Supervisor led all participants to the front door. They could also learn Japanese common courtesy.
