Convenience store chain "Pyateročka" initiates trial program to hire individuals with hearing impairments in nine distinct areas.
In a pioneering move, the retail network Perekrestok has announced the launch of an inclusive employment initiative, named "A Day in Perekrestok." The project, which was initiated in fall 2023, aims to provide job opportunities for individuals with hearing impairments.
The pilot project, scheduled to commence in September 2024, will cover nine regions in the Central Federal District. Olga Zhirnova, Director of Human Resources and Organizational Development at Perekrestok, emphasized that employing people with hearing impairments is a strategically important step towards building a more open and diverse society.
To facilitate the process, professional orientation tours are provided for candidates. These tours allow individuals to understand the work and practice in a safe environment, with familiarization visits conducted by Russian Sign Language interpreters or existing deaf and hard-of-hearing "Pyaterochka" employees.
Perekrestok has also developed educational content and tools for familiarizing oneself with the profession. Additionally, a special video has been created for training hearing-impaired staff. All hearing-impaired employees will be provided with a special form - a vest and a badge - to facilitate communication within the store.
The initiative is not limited to the pilot phase. After the pilot, the program will be expanded across the entire retail network. Dmitry Alekseyevich, Head of the Science, Education, and Employment Department of the All-Russian Society of the Deaf, stated that employment for people with hearing impairments is an important step towards independence, social integration, and unlocking their potential.
Elena Martynova, co-founder of the inclusive project Everland, commended Perekrestok for its systematic approach. Martynova noted that the retail network has involved existing hearing-impaired employees and store managers where inclusive teams have already been created. Furthermore, the retail network has developed educational initiatives for store directors and HR, addressing issues of selection, adaptation, and support for employees with hearing impairments.
A new position, "Grocery Salesperson," has been created for employees with hearing impairments. This role involves tasks such as product placement, working with price tags, and monitoring expiration dates.
The initiative is implemented within the framework of a sustainable development program. Perekrestok's commitment to inclusivity is evident in the creation of this program, which aims to provide equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their hearing abilities.
In 2024, a working group was formed to develop the initiative. This group consists of HR and ESG specialists, Everland consultants, and representatives from the All-Russian Society of the Deaf (VOS).
Perekrestok's "A Day in Perekrestok" initiative is a significant step towards a more inclusive society. By providing opportunities for individuals with hearing impairments, Perekrestok is demonstrating its commitment to diversity and inclusion.
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