Disability and work: what are your rights?

In Italy, people with disabilities have the right to work. This right is protected by the Italian Constitution and various laws.

Finding a job, however, is not always easy. For many migrants with disabilities, the difficulties can be even greater due to:

• language barriers;
• unrecognized documents;
• bureaucratic difficulties;
• discrimination;
• transportation problems;
• lack of information about one’s rights.

Knowing your rights is the first step toward protecting yourself and finding available opportunities.

Targeted placement

In Italy, there is a system known as “collocamento mirato” [targeted placement], established by Law 68/1999. This system helps people with disabilities find employment suited to their abilities, skills, and health conditions.

Companies with more than a certain number of employees are required to hire workers with disabilities as well.

To register for targeted employment placement, you must:

1. be recognized as having a civil disability;
2. have a reduction in work capacity of more than 45%  (i.e., 46% or higher);
3. be of working age;
4. be unemployed or looking for work;

1. be registered with the Employment Centre.

What documents are required?

Usually, the following are needed:

• identity document;
• valid residence permit;
• disability certificate;
• tax ID code;
• CV or curriculum vitae. 

Some offices, such as il Centro per l’Impiego [the Employment Centre], may require additional documents. It is important to check the requirements before visiting the office in your city.

If you have difficulty with the Italian language, you can ask a cultural mediator or a local association for assistance.

Possible types of work

A person with a disability can work in many sectors, depending on their skills, training, and health condition. Many companies today also offer flexible working arrangements or remote work.

Free training and courses

Many regions organize free courses to help people with disabilities find work.

These courses can help to:

• learn Italian;
• use a computer;
• learn a trade;
• prepare a CV;
• handle a job interview.

Some courses also include internships or work placements. 

Workplace accommodations

The employer must endeavor to make the workplace accessible and suited to the individual’s needs.

These adaptations are called “reasonable accommodations”.

For example:

• flexible hours;
• technological tools;
• adapted desks;
• elevators;
• voice software;
• ASL interpreters;
• remote work opportunities.

These changes help the person work better and safely.

The role of social cooperatives

Social cooperatives help many people with disabilities enter the workforce.

They can offer:

• training;
• job placement;
• tutor;
• employment support;
• more inclusive environments.

For some people, they represent the first step towards a stable job.

You can search for the cooperative nearest you on Google by typing, for example:

“Social cooperative + the name of your city.” For example, in Florence, you can find Cooperativa Barberi, which supports people with disabilities in entering the workforce.

What to do if you are having trouble

If you cannot find a job or think you have been discriminated against, do not face it alone.

You can ask for help from:

• associations for people with disabilities;
• [patronati] patronage institutes;
• [sindacati] trade unions;
• migrant support services;
• social services;
• Centri per l’Impiego employment centers.

Many services are free of charge.

Even though the journey can be difficult, there are tools, services, and associations that can help.

Knowing your rights, seeking support, and staying informed are essential for building your professional future in Italy.

This contribution was produced by ItaliaHello with the help and support of Cooperativa Sociale Barberi Onlus.