What is a key focus of supported employment?

A key focus of supported employment is integrating individuals with disabilities into the workforce. This approach emphasizes creating opportunities for these individuals to find and maintain meaningful employment in competitive work settings, facilitating their inclusion in mainstream jobs rather than segregating them into separate programs or roles. Supported employment combines job training, assistance from employment specialists, and ongoing support to help individuals navigate workplace challenges and achieve job success, thereby promoting both personal development and community participation.

The other options emphasize different priorities that are not the central focus of supported employment, such as individual independence in all scenarios, which may overlook the necessary support structures that assist individuals with disabilities. Maximizing the potential of all employees is a broader goal that does not specifically address the unique needs of individuals with disabilities. Guaranteeing permanent employment for every individual is not realistic or feasible, as job retention can vary based on circumstances and individual readiness, rather than being a guaranteed outcome of any program.