Natural supports are methods of inclusion and assistance that exist in any given workplace, and that an employee with a disability can tap into1. These supports help the person to perform their role, and also to feel socially included, which is crucial for highperformance and job retention1. Natural supports can involve people, procedures, customs, tools, and benefits that are typically available in the workplace, along with individualized supports seen as normative within the setting1. Some examples of natural supports are mentoring, friendship, socializing, providing feedback, or reminding12.
Among the four options, only C involves a natural support that can help the 19-year-old female feel more connected and confident in the workplace. By finding a co-worker who can empathize with, mentor, and support her on the job, she can benefit from the guidance, encouragement, and friendship of someone who understands the work environment and culture. This can also help her to develop her skills, overcome her challenges, and integrate into the social network of the workplace12.
Option A is not a natural support, but a paid support that may create a barrier between the employee and her co-workers. It may also send a message that she cannot do the job without a support person, and hinder her independence and self-esteem2. Option B is also not a natural support, but a personal support that may blur the boundaries between the professional and personal relationship. It may also create a dependency onthe supervisor, and prevent the employee from seeking help from other sources3. Option D is not a workplace support, but a clinical support that may not address the specific needs and goals of the employee in relation to her work. It may also stigmatize the employee, and make her feel more isolated and anxious4.
References:
1: The Importance of Natural Supports - ThinkWork
2: The Case for Natural Supports in the Workplace
3: Natural Supports - Project 10
4: Workplace Mental Health - Anxiety Disorders Association of Canada