UPDATE ON THE NETWORK'S ACTIVITIES

Empowerment of Individuals

During the first months of 2011, the network partners tested the first version of the beneficiary empowerment questionnaire.  1,474 questionnaires were completed and analysed and the tool validated.  Please follows this link for a selection of analysis data and graphs (MS PowerPoint, 913 KB). Peer reviews are being carried out in the partners’ member states to collate feedback and suggestions on the improvement of the questionnaire.  Following those, the tool will be fine-tuned and tested with a smaller number of individuals.

Establishment of an Inclusive Workplace

Our initial intention of developing an empowerment measurement tool for employers has shifted to the creation of an award scheme which recognizes employers who excel in the provision of inclusive workplaces.  To that effect, we are liaising with both Kanchi, who launched the O2 Ability Awards in 2004 with the purpose of engaging business leadership around the business case for disability, and Stonewall, whose Workplace Equality Index, launched in 2005, is a tool for employers to measure their efforts to tackle discrimination and create inclusive workplaces for lesbian, gay and bisexual employees.  

In addition, we will produce a handbook on empowerment and inclusion, which will be aimed at ESF project promoters and Managing Authorities as well as employers and intermediary agencies.