Creating Inclusive Work Environments: The HOST VET Course for Managers
The HOST partnership performed online (77) and offline (1) interviews among tourism managers. The majority of our interviewees, at 82%, indicated awareness and familiarity with autism in some way. Furthermore, 47% of organizations have implemented a social responsibility policy, while 24% are considering implementation. This indicates a growing trend towards social responsibility and inclusivity in the workplace.
Source: own
Core training topics were suggested to focus on aspects that belong to:
- interactions with and among all staff (incl. communication, motivating others, giving feedback and communicating job profiles, work descriptions and responsibilities, general adapted interactions),
- managing and leading behaviour and skills (for adapting work procedures, work place infrastructure, as well as environment and resources)
- and support and evaluation (like for staff development, special social inclusion measures career pathways and impact evaluation, etc.).
The research results will be used to develop a training methodology that is both effective and appropriate for the target audience. This shall enable managers in the tourism industry to acquire new knowledge and skills to support staff with autism and improve their social integration in the workplace. The end goal is to promote diversity and equal opportunities across the sector, as well as to enhance the overall quality of care provided.