The Association for Supported Employment Europe (ASEE) is the European umbrella organisation that brings together national associations of supported employment providers across the continent. Through ASEE, members are able to share their expertise at the European level. The Network ensures that information, best practices, and knowledge flow as efficiently as possible among members to learn from successes and challenges encountered during the implementation of supported employment services at the national level.
As a membership Network established under its statutes, ASEE may take decisions pertaining to its existence, evolution, and strategic direction only through its members.
Each year, the General Assembly of member associations meets to discuss and take decisions on important issues, including the Strategic Plan for the Network (multi-annual orientation), the annual Work Plan, financial statements, activity reports, and the admission of new members.
In order to assist with the objectives of the Network, the general management of activities has been delegated to two key structures:
Executive Board
The Executive Board is composed of elected senior representatives of ASEE member associations. The Board is responsible for safeguarding and promoting the interests of the Network and all its members, as well as supervising the implementation of the agreed Strategic Plan and Work Plans. They can act as representatives for the whole Network in European policy fora, advocating for the rights of people with significant disabilities to access vocational training and paid work. They report to the General Assembly.
ASEE Secretariat
The ASEE Secretariat comprises experts in disability rights, vocational rehabilitation, EU social policy, communication, and administration. The Secretariat is responsible for the daily management and implementation of the duties and activities planned for delivery in any given year, as detailed in the annual work plans. The Secretariat acts under the supervision of the Executive Board and formally reports on the advancement of these plans at regular Board meetings. As recognised experts in their respective fields, Secretariat staff contribute to research, develop quality standards, and disseminate models of good practice throughout Europe.
Mission & Objectives
The creation of ASEE stemmed from the necessity to professionalise the exchange of expertise in supported employment and to facilitate the representation, promotion, and protection of members’ interests at the European level.
A main objective of the Network is to collect information and create new knowledge on Supported Employment that first and foremost helps members improve their practice at the national level. This knowledge comes from the members themselves and their experience implementing supported employment mandates. Other sources include civil society actors, academia, and other institutions working on the inclusion of persons with disabilities. ASEE actively campaigns for supportive legislation and serves as a lead organisation in promoting excellence and capacity-building across Europe.
President
Karen Warson
ASEE Secretariat
Vice Presidents:
Kaija Ray
Annette Jönnervik Holmblad
David Stenning, Treasurer
Edyth Dunlop, Secretary
Staff Team:
Laura Jones, Interim Managing Director
Miriam Reyskens, Project Officer
Martina Bianco, Junior Strategic Communications and Partnerships Officer
Maria Cabré