HIRE? A Mixed-method Examination of Disability and Employers Inclusive Working Life Practices

Employers' understandings of disability as well as their broader knowledge and skills are likely to influence their risk assessments and hiring practices. HIRE? aims to fill this knowledge gap.

Current research-based knowledge about these issues remains insufficient. The project covers the main steps in the hiring processes, from assessments of job applications to hiring decisions. HIRE includes an international comparison (Sweden and the US).

The researchers behind the HIRE project will work in close collaboration with stakeholders who interact with and support people with disabilities. The regional level of the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (“NAV”), i.e., the NAV Employment Support Centres in Akershus and in Rogaland, together with the Norwegian association of youth with disabilities, will take part in implementing the project.

The Norwegian Confederation of Trade Unions (LO), The Norwegian Federation of Service Industries and Retail Trade (NHO Service og Handel), and the Employers' Association Spekter will all be part of our Expert Board. Furthermore, the project will be part of the Competence Centre for Work Inclusion (KAI) at OsloMet – Oslo Metropolitan University. The KAI works to strengthen the link between research, education, and the field of practice on work inclusion.

The research team members have professional backgrounds in sociology, economics, anthropology, psychology, and law. Together with the stakeholders, they will carry out a project that aims to complement prior research by developing and implementing new methods in the field of disability research and beginning to fill a critical gap in the evidence base that hampers effective policy change.

The overall objectives of the project aim to contribute to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals within 8) decent work and economic growth, 10) reduced inequality, and 11) sustainable cities and communities.