Project helps disability pension recipients become self-employed

A project profiled by SRF is helping people with disabilities set up their own businesses while continuing to receive a disability insurance pension. Since 2024, eight people have founded companies through the initiative.

One of them is 28-year-old Rebekka Steiger, who has set up a sewing studio in her flat in Weinfelden, in the canton of Thurgau. She alters dresses and trousers, makes custom items and produces special orders such as sofa covers.

Steiger completed an apprenticeship in a fabric shop and earned a vocational baccalaureate, but was unable to work because of mental health problems. She was first admitted to a clinic at the age of 21 and had further stays there. Attempts to work in different settings, including sheltered workshops, did not work out.

Running her own studio suits her, she said. She can work until 2am if she wants, something that would not be possible in the regular or supported labour market. She initially feared that the venture might fail, but was reassured that she would continue to receive her full disability insurance pension even if it did.

Under the arrangement, Steiger is legally still employed by a foundation that runs various workshops and residential services in Thurgau. However, she can independently accept orders. The arrangement is possible through the Eigenes Schaffen project.

Participants receive support in courses that help refine their ideas and answer questions. They also continue to receive assistance after becoming self-employed. A new course on self-employment with a disability began in September, with participants whose ideas range from fully developed concepts to projects still at an early stage.

Two participants want to create a podcast for people with mental health conditions or other disabilities. They met in a clinic and have been friends for about six years. Another participant would like to develop something for people with dementia but is still unsure what form it should take and whether the time is right.

Tobias Lindeke, the initiator of Eigenes Schaffen, said the activity should be more than a hobby. Participants do not need to earn their entire living, he said, but the work should be serious enough to generate roughly the income expected in a sheltered workshop.

Lindeke said the target was at least 250 Swiss francs a month. Participants must use this money to cover costs such as materials and additional expenses, with the remainder serving as their wage.

Steiger, who is now an ambassador for the project, said self-employment itself brought enjoyment and confidence. She continues to sew in her own studio while receiving her disability insurance pension.