Creative and inclusive: This is how the linden workshops live in Leipzig

Creative and inclusive: This is how the linden workshops live in Leipzig

The Linden workshops of the Diakonie in Leipzig are a shining example of how creative ideas can enable people with disabilities to participate in working life. This facility, which is located in the Lindenau district, has set itself the task of offering the clients a meaningful job and at the same time promoting their skills. Sebastian, a committed employee in the carpentry, creates wood animals with dedication and contributes to the fact that around 800 wooden desks for fitters are manufactured in wind power service annually. "There is not only work here, but also a valuable community," says Jörg, who works as a potter in the ceramic area, the atmosphere of the workshops that are open on weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

The linden workshops rely on smaller orders that are often uninteresting for large industrial companies, thus offering an important niche in the labor market. According to the information from the Diakonie Leipzig, around 180 clients and 45 employees work in Lindenau, who work in various areas such as wood processing, ceramics and even laundry. These jobs are not only a form of employment, but also an opportunity for many who often have difficulties on the first job market. The workshops benefit from a financing that is covered by 90% by the municipal social association and 10% by the employment agency as well as pension insurance institutions.

Various offers and individual support

In the linden workshops, not only work, but also learned. The facility offers its employees the opportunity to develop through work accompanying work and thus expand their skills. These measures include social skills training, health training as well as individual therapies such as occupational therapy and speech therapy. All 100 employees at the different locations - in Panitzsch and Schkeuditz - are committed to ensuring that over 450 people with disabilities receive the support they need.

Another central point in the work of the linden workshops is preparation for the first job market. Job coaches are at the side of the clients to enable internships and to support them in brokering in regular employment relationships. The goal is integration into society and the promotion of independence, as is also stipulated in the UN Convention on the Rights of Disabilities.

social importance of participation

The participation of people with disabilities in working life has far -reaching social relevance. It not only ensures a living, but also contributes to social integration and strengthens the self -confidence of those affected. According to the Federal Center for Political Education, there are currently around 3.1 million people with severe disabilities of employable age in Germany, whereby the employment rate has increased in recent years. Nevertheless, many still have to struggle with concerns from employers and often find it difficult to get a suitable place.

The linden workshops play a central role here by beating a bridge to the first labor market and at the same time creating a safe work environment for people who can experience creativity and community there. This form of integration aid is not only important for those affected, but also benefits the entire society. Because an inclusive world of work creates a positive economic and social climate that is useful for everyone.