People with disabilities should have the same opportunity to participate in the job market as everyone else. There are six disability support schemes in Denmark that can help you overcome barriers and get the support you need. In this guide, you'll get a complete overview of your options.
Whether you have a physical, psychological, or cognitive disability, help is available. These support schemes are designed to remove the barriers that may stand in the way of getting and keeping a job. The schemes are free, and you have the right to explore your options.
The purpose of the schemes is clear: More people with disabilities should become part of the workforce. This is not about special treatment – it's about equal opportunities.
The 6 disability support schemes
There are six different schemes, each helping in different ways. Some can be combined to give you optimal support for your situation. Here is an overview:
1. Personal assistance for work
This scheme gives you the opportunity to receive practical assistance or special personal support if you have a disability that affects your work. Your personal assistant can help with specific tasks, interpretation, or personal support.
The assistant can be a colleague at your workplace or someone who comes from outside. The scheme applies to all forms of employment – from regular jobs to flexjob (subsidized employment), work trials, and self-employment.
2. Personal assistance for education
This scheme ensures that you have the same opportunities for further education and training as others. You can get help during courses and education – regardless of whether you already receive personal assistance in your daily work.
The assistant can help with secretarial assistance, sign language interpretation, video interpretation, support for structure and planning, or other practical tasks.
3. Aids and equipment
If you need special aids to perform your work, you can receive subsidies or loan of work equipment. This can also include minor workplace modifications.
The scheme applies if the aid is not commonly found at the workplace, is essential for you to work, and compensates for your reduced work capacity.
4. The icebreaker scheme
The icebreaker scheme (Isbryderordningen) is a special wage subsidy targeted at recent graduates with disabilities. The purpose is to give you work experience within your field – something you may not have had the opportunity to gain due to your disability.
The scheme can last up to one year, and the company receives a subsidy for your salary. You work at the standard wage according to collective agreements in a public or private company.
5. The mentor scheme
A mentor can support you during a period when you have special needs – for example, when starting a new job, participating in a program, or during education.
The mentor can help with everything from getting up in the morning to functioning socially with colleagues. The scheme is temporary and can last up to 6 months at a time with the possibility of extension.
6. Priority access
With priority access (Fortrinsadgang), you can apply for public sector positions with priority for a job interview. You are only hired if the employer considers you the best qualified – but you are guaranteed an interview.
The scheme also applies to apprenticeships, taxi licenses, kiosks, and market stalls. You can use the scheme with or without help from the Jobcenter (Danish employment office).
How to use this course
In the following guides, we go in depth with each individual scheme. You can choose to read them in order or jump directly to the schemes that are most relevant to you.
Each topic covers:
- Who the scheme is for
- What the scheme involves
- Conditions and requirements
- How to get started
- Where to find more information
Tip: Take notes as you go. Write down which schemes might be relevant for you and which questions you want to ask your caseworker.
Where to find help?
If you have questions or want to explore your options further, there are several places to get help:
- Your caseworker: Contact your caseworker at the Jobcenter (Danish employment office). They know your case and can help assess which schemes suit you.
- Key person for disability issues: Each Jobcenter has a key person with special knowledge about disability support schemes.
- STAR.dk: On the Danish Agency for Labour Market and Recruitment's website, you can find contact information for key persons at your local Jobcenter.
There is also a brochure from STAR that elaborates on the possibilities within the various schemes and provides concrete examples of how they can be used.
The schemes can be combined
It is important to know that several of the schemes can be combined. For example, you can have a job with personal assistance and at the same time have access to aids. Or you can be in the icebreaker scheme and at the same time have a mentor.
It's about finding the combination of support that fits your particular situation and needs.
Common questions about the schemes
Many have the same questions when they first hear about the disability support schemes:
- "Can I even use the schemes?" – Yes, if you have a permanent functional impairment that affects your ability to work. Contact your caseworker for a specific assessment.
- "Does it cost anything?" – No, the schemes are free for you. Society pays to ensure equal opportunities.
- "Can I use them in all types of jobs?" – Yes, the schemes apply in both public and private companies, in regular jobs, flexjobs, work trials, and self-employment.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a specific diagnosis to use these schemes?
No, there is no requirement for a specific diagnosis. What matters is that you have a permanent functional impairment that creates barriers to employment. The Jobcenter (Danish employment office) will assess your situation individually.
Can I choose which scheme to use?
You can always request to have your options examined, but it is the Jobcenter that determines which schemes you are eligible for. Your caseworker can help you find the schemes that suit your situation.
How long does it take to set up the schemes?
It varies depending on the scheme and your situation. Some schemes can be established relatively quickly, while others require more preparation. Start the dialogue with your caseworker as early as possible.
Next step
You now have an overview of the six disability support schemes. In the next guides, we go in depth with each individual scheme so you can find out which ones are relevant for you.
Start with Personal assistance for work – it is the most widely used scheme and can be relevant regardless of what type of job you have or are looking for.
Remember: You have the right to explore your options. It costs you nothing, and it can open doors you may not have known existed.