Inclusion is a matter of attitude – persons with severe disabilities

In this double duty, she has found not a burden, but fulfillment. Because from her own experience she has learned: “Helping others isn’t selfless – it’s a recipe for greater health and happiness, especially when you don’t think you have any time for anything like that. It’s in my nature to help other people.ˮ Albert knows what she is talking about. Since 1977, she herself has had a severe disability, which makes her an ideal supporter of and ambassador for people with similar limitations. In 2008 she became active in this role at thyssenkrupp Materials Services. Her primary responsibility in this area: removing barriers, accommodating people, and putting herself in their position – and not just in their work lives, but during the application process as well.

Change begins in the mind

But this work isn’t about charity. “First we look at the applicant’s qualifications and professional aptitude,ˮ Albert emphasizes. “Only then do we look at whether the disability would hamper their integration.ˮ If this is found to be the case, then flexibility and creativity are called for – but, above all, the will to eliminate the given barriers. Albert worked in cooperation with the inclusion office and the relevant department to examine whether certain resources were appropriate for solving the problem. With regard to office work, this could mean, for example, height-adjustable desks, larger computer monitors, or grasping instruments that facilitate activities by means of small changes. In warehouse operations, where physical work is done, somewhat more imagination and creativity is required. The question that presents itself and drives the matter forward is: how can work procedures be adapted so that the applicant can carry them out without trouble – with, or despite, their particular disability? In many cases, this is possible through a shifting of activities and responsibilities within the team. Ideally, employees are given exactly the tasks that they can do best.

Valuable pillars of the company

Over the years, Rita Albert – like Human Resources and management personnel – has repeatedly had the experience that many people with disabilities possess special and useful individual competencies, which they often apply in an even more targeted and ambitious manner than their colleagues without disabilities. In order to identify these competencies, the company places suited applicants with disabilities not only in jobs, but also in apprenticeships. The clear message from the employer: we warmly welcome all people! The result in terms of inclusion, to which Albert has made an essential contribution, is impressive. There are currently 315 employees at thyssenkrupp Materials Services with a severe disability. And at one point or another, they have all crossed paths with Rita Albert. In 2022, after 14 years as representative, Albert turned her office over to her colleague, Arif Yesilyurt.