“Mental illness is an all too often shunned and stigmatised topic,” comments Tarryn Mason, the Managing Director of Progression. “Through this conference and other endeavours, we aim to break through this stigma and create a deeper understanding and acceptance of this subject, especially in the workplace. Approximately one in five people will, or do, suffer from a mental illness. Therefore, equipping HR managers, and staff in general, with the knowledge and understanding needed to proactively address and manage mental health in the workplace is vital.”
The programme, which will run over one day, aims to unpack, among other things, what mental disability is, barriers faced by people with disabilities in the workplace, overcoming these barriers, as well as creating a disclosure-friendly environment.
Speakers at this year’s Disability Conference will include Keshika Naidoo, registered Occupational Therapist; Justene Smith, Disability Specialist at Progression; Tarryn Mason, Managing Director at Progression and Tyrone Edgar. Each speaker will share their own expertise as they guide delegates through the disclosure process, confidentiality, diagnosis and understanding of mental health conditions and much more.
Highlights of the Disability Conference will include a guide to ensure mental wellbeing in the workplace, a free workplace wellness toolkit, various activities geared towards better understanding of mental disability in the workplace and a Wellness Day give-away!
The programme for the Disability Conference will be presented in a talk-show format which will encourage conversations between speakers and audiences. The participation of HR and EE managers, transformation specialists, health and wellness practitioners and CEOs is encouraged.
“Creating a better understanding and awareness of mental disabilities in the workplace, and society in general, is the first step towards an inclusive workforce,” comments Tarryn. “We look forward to the conversations that will take place at this year’s Disability Conference that will shed light on this often-overlooked subject, as well as the challenges still being faced and how to overcome them.”
To book your ticket head on over to www.understanddisability.co.za or alternatively contact Kristen at az.oc.noissergorp@netsirK.
