Release Date: 13/06/2008
More people with learning disabilities are finding employment in the borough than ever before.
In the last year Richmond Council’s Power Employment team secured paid employment for 12 people, making a current total of 44.
The number of those being offered work experience has risen to 29, up from 21 in 2006/7, while the total number of people on their books has increased to 84.
Among those who have been found a job is Anna Docker, from St Margarets, who works twice a week at Starbucks in George Street, Richmond.
Anna said:
“My job is very important to me. I enjoy saying hello to the customers and all of the other people who work here are very friendly.”
Maria Marsh, store manager at the George Street branch, said:
“Anna has been with us for almost a year. When she first arrived she was very shy but gradually her confidence has grown and she seems to really enjoy connecting with our customers and is a valued part of our team.”
Power Employment is now appealing to more local businesses to include people with learning disabilities among their staff.
The team is running an event, in partnership with Richmond Mencap, to support national Learning Disability Week, which runs from 15-21 June, and aims to raise awareness of the low levels of employment for people with a learning disability.
The event takes place at York House on Wednesday 18 June, from 11.30am – 2pm.
Richmond Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Health and Housing, Cllr Denise Carr, said:
“The Power Employment team is doing a superb job, with more people finding full or part-time work than ever before.
“Learning Disability Week is a real opportunity for organisations and businesses in the borough to find out more about employing someone with a learning disability.
”We are committed to continuing this work and encourage any employers interested to contact the Power Employment team”
Any local business or organisation interested in offering full or part time work can contact Linda Sylvester at Power Employment on 020 8487 5253 or email l.sylvester@richmond.gov.uk. The council's learning disability team has more information about employment support online.