Affiliations: School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University,
Kingston, ON, Canada | Sør-Trøndelag University College,
Trondheim, Norway | Bakeribygett, Mo i Rana, Norway
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Rosemary Lysaght, School of
Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada K7L 3N6. Tel.: +1
613 533 2134; Fax: +1 613 533 6776; E-mail: lysaght@queensu.ca
Abstract: Background: Social firms are widely used in Europe as a means of
affirmatively creating employment opportunities and training for employment
challenged groups. These commercial businesses produce, market and sell goods
and services to the public while providing opportunities for productive
engagement, increased incomes, and social integration for their employees. Methods: This article presents a case study of a Norwegian social
firm that was created to improve employment and functional outcomes for workers
with mental health disabilities and addictions. The case illustrates one model
of social firm, and is used as the foundation for discussion of the relative
contributions of social firms to employment outcomes for people who are
marginalized in the labour market. Results: The social firm represented a major change in philosophy
and operations for mental health service provision in the local municipality.
Numbers of individuals served increased dramatically, and changes were observed
in the extent and nature of participant daily involvement, and in outcomes
achieved. This model brings participants into contact with the public, and has
served to break down barriers and reduce stigma. Conclusions: Social firms represent a viable alternative for
creating employment options and training and for enhancing social integration
of people with mental health disabilities.
Keywords: Social enterprise, mental health, vocational rehabilitation
