How Hong Kong employers can tap into the subsidy programme for hiring persons with disabilities

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The maximum support level for the SPED is $40,000 for each PWD hired.

Employers in Hong Kong can submit their applications all year round for a subsidy programme that incentivises them to hire persons with disabilities (PWDs) through nomination by a referring organisation. 

This refers to the Support Programme for Employees with Disabilities (SPED) which was launched in June 2013, which provides PWD employers a one-off subsidy for each such hire that they can use towards procuring of assistive devices and/or workplace modifications. Examples include computer accessories or adaptive equipment, optical magnifying devices, hearing and assistive devices, Braille products and handrails.

The maximum support level for the SPED is $40,000 for each PWD hired. Po Leung Kuk is the programme administrator, which is also tasked with preparing assessments on the applications and making recommendations to the Committee on the SPED set up by the SWD for consideration.

Employers may apply for a subsidy under the SPED through nomination by the following referring organisations:

1. Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) operating SWD-subvented vocational rehabilitation services;
2. NGOs running training courses for persons with disabilities or persons recovering from work injuries with the funding support of the Employees Retraining Board;
3. Selective Placement Division of the Labour Department;
4. Vocational Training Council; or
5. SPED Administrator (Po Leung Kuk).

Employers may submit their completed application forms together with the required documents by mail or by hand to the SWD through the referring organisations. No application fee is required and each applicant may submit more than one application.

ALSO READ: How to build disability confidence in workplaces in Hong Kong

Lead image / 123RF

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