The initiative 'Supported Employment' is consolidated in the Canary Islands as an effective tool to promote the labor inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities, or mental health problems in ordinary companies.
Funded by the State Public Employment Service of the Ministry of Labor and Social Economy and the Canary Islands Employment Service, the development of the Supported Employment program is linked to the creation of the Inclusive Employment Promotion Units (UFEI).
In total, there are already 5 active UFEIs, three in Gran Canaria and two in Lanzarote, managed by entities belonging to Plena inclusión Canarias. Thanks to them, since March 2025, a total of 108 people (39 of them in Lanzarote) with intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities, or mental health problems are accessing job opportunities in ordinary environments.
In Lanzarote, there are two active programs. The one of Adislan, which serves 24 participants, and the one of Adepsi which supports 15 participants.
The UFEIs are composed of job counselors and trainers, who work with each person individually. They identify the interests, skills, and necessary support that each person needs and accompany them in the active job search.
Likewise, they contact companies, manage vacancies, prepare candidates, and accompany them during their work performance to ensure their good adaptation to the company, which is also advised by the UFEIs.