Lighthouse for the Blind Of Greece

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Employment and visually-impaired individuals

The first important turning-point in the employment sector was in 1930 when blind individuals were allowed to practise the profession of Church Chanter. Since then many churches in Greece have blind individuals working for them as Chanters.

Employment at the Lighthouse for the Blind in Greece

In 1946, the Lighthouse for the Blind created the Brushes - Brooms Workshop, which since then has provided work for a large number of Blind individuals that do not have the ability to work in any other work environment or the opportunity to practice another profession. They are paid in compliance with the national employment contracts and can retire after 15 years.
In 1984 the Lighthouse for the Blind created the Metal Works Unit, where visually-impaired individuals are also employed.

Telephone Operators

In 1950 the Lighthouse for the Blind founded the Telephone Operator School for the Blind , and legislature was passed which enabled blind operators to be hired into public institutions as civil servants. Today the School operates at KEAT.

Employment and New Technology

In 1990 the Lighthouse for the Blind organized the new Computer Department , giving many individuals the opportunity to improve their work conditions and access to knowledge and entertainment.

Other Professions

Today a small number of Musicians, Teachers and Lawyers are employed in the Legal Aid system or as self-employed professionals, supplementing the spectrum of employment of visually-impaired individuals today in Greece. Also the profession of Physical Therapist is gaining ground as a preference of visually-impaired individuals.

Support

The Lighthouse for the Blind, via Social Service, supports and helps blind individuals to acquire a job.