Security versus instability in special work centers in Spain

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Special work centers (SWCs) are the main active labor market targeting people with disabilities in Spain. Their objective is to promote the participation of workers with disabilities in the labor market. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this paper is to study the characteristics of workers with disabilities in special work centers in Spain. METHODS: Using the Working Lives Longitudinal Sample (MCVL), we can identify and analyze SWCs and labor relations in these centers from the specific SWC contracts. This is the only database that allows for this type of analysis. RESULTS: The analysis of different aspects of the professional careers of employees at SWCs indicate that the employees enjoy greater stability regarding labor relations, a factor that could be interpreted as better employment conditions when compared to those who do not work at SWCs. However, SWCs appear to be a “refuge” for people with disabilities with low qualification. CONCLUSIONS: Workers with disabilities in SWC have a more stable career path with lower turnover than those working in ordinary firms; employees in these centers tend to have less favorable professional situations (lower wages and worse working conditions).