Perceptions of Employees on Workplace Acceptance and Accommodation of Employees with Disabilities (EWD) within the Department of Social Development, Johannesburg Region

Abstract

This study investigates the perceptions of employees on the acceptance and accommodation of Employees with Disabilities (EWD) within the Department of Social Development in the Johannesburg Region. Guided by an inclusive theoretical perspective, the research aimed to explore how workplace practices align with the principles of inclusion, equity, and reasonable accommodation for people with disabilities. A qualitative approach was adopted using an interpretive phenomenological design to gain insight into the lived experiences of both EWD and the employees without disabilities. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of fifteen participants: seven employees with disabilities and eight employees without disabilities who work in the disability unit of the department. The findings reveal that despite the existence of progressive policies and legal frameworks promoting disability inclusion, their implementation remains inconsistent and often superficial. EWD reported various barriers including poor communication, lack of support, inaccessible environments, and discriminatory attitudes from management. While some efforts towards inclusion were acknowledged, such as targeted recruitment, this was often perceived as compliance-driven rather than embedded in the departmental culture. The study concludes that meaningful inclusion of EWD requires more than policy, it necessitates systemic change, active support, and a shift in organisational attitudes. Recommendations include enhanced disability training for staff, improved implementation of reasonable accommodation measures, and the promotion of inclusive organisational values. This research contributes to the discourse on workplace inclusion in the public sector and underscores the critical role of occupational social work in fostering equitable employment practices for people with disabilities.