Prince George, B.C. –  For the fourth straight year,  September  has been marked  as Disability  Employment  Month in B.C.    It’s a chance to celebrate the contributions of those who have  challenges,  and the  employers and communities  who support their success.

There are  more than 330 thousand British Columbians  between the ages of 15 and 64, who self identify as having a disability. The unemployment  rate for those with disabilities is  4.5% higher than those without,  and they are more than twice as likely to live in  poverty.

During September,  the  focus is on raising  awareness about the skills people with disabilities can bring to the  workplace.  The month is also a time to  encourage businesses to  create an inclusive, diverse work force.

“People with disabilities have skills and talents that employers are looking for and should have an equal opportunity at meaningful employment” says Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, Shane Simpson  ” By proclaiming Disability Employment Month, our government wants to raise awareness and get more people with disabilities into good, well-paying jobs in B.C.”

Over the course of this month,  WorkBC Employment Services Centres, organizations and communities throughout the province will host open houses, job fairs, workshops and appreciation events. Job seekers and employers can contact their local WorkBC Employment Services Centre to learn more about the Disability Employment Month events in their area and the resources and supports available to help people with disabilities obtain employment.