PEOPLE with disabilities looking for work in Warwick lack employment opportunities despite a Federal Government focus on getting them back into the workforce.

Endeavour Industries in the Industrial Estate is at capacity with 37 supported employees, and has seen an increase in capacity of just four places in more than 10 years.

Customer service manager Lisa Wilson said Endeavour provided an invaluable opportunity for people with disabilities to develop skills and personal relationships in a supportive environment.

While Mrs Wilson said she would like to see more placements made available to the people on their waiting list, she said the decision to expand was out of Endeavour's hands.

“We have been at capacity for quite some time now. We certainly feel we have the capacity to provide employment opportunities for more people, but that decision is in the hands of the Federal Government,” she said.

“In Warwick I think we are the only employment service for people with disabilities and I guess there are limited choices available.”

Mrs Wilson said the Endeavour employees get more than just a pay cheque from their job.

She said it also provided the opportunity for personal growth, social networks and friendship, and the clients genuinely enjoyed coming to work each day.

“I think most of these guys would come to work even if they didn't get paid,” she said.

Christine Stacy's son Leigh is employed at the Endeavour centre and she said a learning and lifestyle centre – where people with disabilities could meet, socialise and take part in games and activities – would help.

“If we had a learning and lifestyle centre more people would retire when they should and it would stop the clogging,” she said.

Toby Frost has worked at the Endeavour centre for just over a year.

Mr Frost said he was bullied in his previous job and was happier in his new role.

“It's a lot better here because there is the bestest boss I've ever had,” he said

An extensive study is under way to identify the needs of people with disabilities and their carers in the local community.

Get your copy at the Caltex Service Station (Wallace St), Warwick Library and Mobile Library, Lawrence Springborg's office, Department of Communities office, Condamine Medical Centre, Allora Pharmacy, St Vinnies Killarney or contact Peter Stacy on 0408674634.