Legal Definitions - Sheltered workshop

A sheltered workshop is a place where people who have developmental, physical, or mental disabilities can work. The goal of a sheltered workshop is to help these individuals prepare for work in the general economy. The workshop provides services such as physical rehabilitation, basic training (like how to handle money), specific job skill training, and work experience.

For example, a person with a developmental disability might work in a sheltered workshop where they learn how to assemble products. They might start by learning how to use tools and then move on to more complex tasks. The workshop provides a safe and supportive environment where they can learn and grow.

A sheltered workshop is different from supported employment. In supported employment, people with disabilities are placed directly into a paid competitive working environment without much preparation or training. This can be challenging for some individuals, which is why a sheltered workshop can be a good option for those who need more support.