Employers encouraged to hire more Disabled people to help boost business
In the run up to this year's Learning Disability Week (Monday 16 to Sunday 22 June), Gateshead Access to Employment Service (GATES) are encouraging local employers to hire more Disabled people to help boost their business.
GATES are a Gateshead Council team whose mission is to increase employment for people with learning disabilities and neurodiverse people. As part of their award-winning free service, the team support adults to gain skills and find roles where they can flourish. They also offer support to businesses looking to hire a more diverse workforce.
The strength of the service now means they support more than 50 clients working within over 30 organisations across the North East, in sectors ranging from retail and hospitality to factory work. Some of the businesses currently on their books include big names like Primark, IKEA and Savills, as well as local firms such as MMCS Commercial Cleaning.
With more clients than ever coming through their doors and in the lead up to Learning Disability Week, the team are encouraging local businesses to work with them next time they are recruiting. The team can help organisations tap into a wider pool of candidates and build a diverse workforce that reflects their customer base by recruiting their talented, hardworking clients.
One of those who has found a career where he thrives with support from GATES is Stephen. Stephen has been employed by the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service for over 25 years as a valet, cleaning service vehicles. His role is essential in enabling the fire service to maintain their fleet. Over the years, Stephen has become an invaluable member of the team.
Speaking about his role, Stephen said: "I have been in my current job for over 20 years and I still enjoy coming into work. Working gets me out of the house and has allowed me to make friends and earn my own money."
Louise, People Partner at the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, added: "Stephen has worked with the service for years now and is a really valuable member of the team. He is cheerful, well-liked and always has something to contribute in conversations over the lunch table".
Councillor John Adams, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, also shared: "On average, Disabled workers are paid less than non-Disabled workers and are much more likely to be unemployed. This situation is simply wrong, and we need to do more to support Disabled people into the workplace and to gain new skills. Lots of employers already know that it widens their talent pool when recruiting and can help their bottom line. I'd encourage local businesses to get in touch with the GATES team next time you are hiring."
If you are looking to find your newest team member, get in touch with GATES to find out more.
In the run up to this year's Learning Disability Week (Monday 16 to Sunday 22 June), Gateshead Access to Employment Service (GATES) are encouraging local employers to hire more Disabled people to help boost their business.
GATES are a Gateshead Council team whose mission is to increase employment for people with learning disabilities and neurodiverse people. As part of their award-winning free service, the team support adults to gain skills and find roles where they can flourish. They also offer support to businesses looking to hire a more diverse workforce.
The strength of the service now means they support more than 50 clients working within over 30 organisations across the North East, in sectors ranging from retail and hospitality to factory work. Some of the businesses currently on their books include big names like Primark, IKEA and Savills, as well as local firms such as MMCS Commercial Cleaning.
With more clients than ever coming through their doors and in the lead up to Learning Disability Week, the team are encouraging local businesses to work with them next time they are recruiting. The team can help organisations tap into a wider pool of candidates and build a diverse workforce that reflects their customer base by recruiting their talented, hardworking clients.
One of those who has found a career where he thrives with support from GATES is Stephen. Stephen has been employed by the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service for over 25 years as a valet, cleaning service vehicles. His role is essential in enabling the fire service to maintain their fleet. Over the years, Stephen has become an invaluable member of the team.
Speaking about his role, Stephen said: "I have been in my current job for over 20 years and I still enjoy coming into work. Working gets me out of the house and has allowed me to make friends and earn my own money."
Louise, People Partner at the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, added: "Stephen has worked with the service for years now and is a really valuable member of the team. He is cheerful, well-liked and always has something to contribute in conversations over the lunch table".
Councillor John Adams, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, also shared: "On average, Disabled workers are paid less than non-Disabled workers and are much more likely to be unemployed. This situation is simply wrong, and we need to do more to support Disabled people into the workplace and to gain new skills. Lots of employers already know that it widens their talent pool when recruiting and can help their bottom line. I'd encourage local businesses to get in touch with the GATES team next time you are hiring."
If you are looking to find your newest team member, get in touch with GATES to find out more.
