The Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors has successfully supported the delivery of a Pilot Vocational Training Programme for adults with diverse support needs, which started in March, in collaboration with Renaissance Rehabilitation and WindReach. This initiative highlights the Ministry’s commitment to advancing disability inclusion and increasing workforce participation. The pilot programme was designed to enhance vocational readiness through structured training, assessment, and hands-on work experience.

The Ministry provided a grant of $50,000 to WindReach Bermuda to support the delivery of this programme. 

Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, the Hon. Tinee Furbert, JP, MP, stated, “The launch of this pilot programme marks an important step forward in ensuring that individuals with diverse support needs are given every opportunity to develop skills, build confidence, and participate meaningfully in the workforce. This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to inclusion and empowerment, and we are encouraged by the progress demonstrated by participants and the potential for future programme expansion.”

Through careful observation and assessment, five participants were selected to take part in the first cohort, engaging in a variety of structured activities including meal preparation, workplace setup, seasonal crafts, and retail preparation for weekly sales. The first cohort of participants received nine Occupational Therapy-specific sessions and would have received ten if not for the Good Friday holiday. Participants also benefited from comprehensive occupational therapy assessments, targeted interventions, and up to 10 hours per week of on-site paid work experience. 

The Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote independence, skill development, and meaningful opportunities for persons with diverse support needs, and acknowledges the collaborative efforts of Renaissance Rehabilitation and WindReach in delivering this impactful pilot programme.