Sheltered Employment: Employment Clubs

An occupational club is a service designed to promote meaningful engagement in various areas through life-skills training, social activities, volunteering, and other pursuits. The service gives people in rehabilitation the opportunity to explore different activities and develop basic work habits and skills. There are several types of clubs, each with its own unique character, suited to various occupations and age groups—for example, clubs focused on the arts, clubs tailored for older adults, or those adapted to specific cultural or religious backgrounds.

People in rehabilitation receive support from trained professionals and experienced rehabilitation instructors. The professional team provides tools and support to help participants build a meaningful daily routine while developing skills and life abilities that promote independence and a sense of belonging in the broader community.

Who is eligible for the occupational club service

An occupational club is suitable for people in rehabilitation who wish to explore various activities, such as recreation, life-skills development, volunteering, and more. It’s important to note that this is not a workplace, but rather a structured occupation. In other words, the club is meant for those for whom formal employment may not currently be suitable, but who still want to find another meaningful daily routine.

Service terms

Each club, according to its unique nature, sets its own rules, structure, and level of commitment.

Evaluation period and development of a rehabilitation plan

The first three months in the club serve as a mutual trial period, during which the accompanying professional conducts an initial assessment of the participant’s level of functioning. During this evaluation, the participant’s preferences and interests are reviewed, along with an assessment of functional abilities, including identification of strengths and skills related to work and daily activities. The evaluation helps determine whether the chosen club is suitable and whether it supports the participant’s rehabilitation potential—both in the short and long term.

Opportunities for progress within the occupational club

The goal of the occupational club is to serve as a bridge to the community, helping participants apply the skills they gained in the club to community life. The primary purpose of the occupational club is to develop meaningful activities that promote social inclusion and participation. The professional team assists participants in connecting to community-based, non-rehabilitation settings where they can apply what they’ve learned and experienced in the club. For example, if a participant volunteered in a rehabilitation-based program, efforts will be made to connect them with volunteer opportunities within the wider community.

After receiving the referral, the rehabilitation basket teams will present you with the options available in your area or, alternatively, provide you with tools to explore them yourself. After selecting the club, an intake will be conducted by the professional team to define the service goals and develop a personalized rehabilitation plan. When applying to the club, it is important to bring the following documents:

1. Updated psychiatric report (within the past six months).
2. Psychosocial report.
3. Rehabilitation Basket Committee form with the approval number for the selected service.

Ending the occupational club service

Any decision to end participation in the service will be made based on professional considerations and will be coordinated with the participant at least two weeks in advance. If needed, the team will help explore other options that may be suitable for the next stage of rehabilitation.