Head WEST for opportunity
A countywide service is being launched to get more people with learning disabilities into work, and everyone is invited to a free event to find out more.
It is estimated that just one in ten adults with a learning disability are in employment despite most wanting and being able to fulfil a wide range of roles. Warwickshire County Council has launched WEST, Warwickshire Employment Support Team, to drive up job opportunities by providing the vital support and links between the learning disabled and employers.
WEST will be holding an informal open day from 2pm-6pm on Monday 10th May at the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, Binley Business Park, Coventry, CV3 2UN, and everyone is welcome to drop in at any time.
You will get an opportunity to speak to people from local colleges, support services and local employers - ranging from small local businesses to large organisations. Job Centre Plus will be on hand with information and advice on benefits as well as Roger Painter from ‘Valuing People Now’, the government’s strategy to support people with learning disabilities into paid employment.
Most importantly, you will get a chance to meet the people who use WEST themselves - like Jason Mann who has a learning disability. Five years ago Jason was socially isolated and unable to leave the family home on his own. WEST supported Jason to gain paid employment at Twycross Zoo and he now travels independently to his job as an Assistant Zookeeper.
Rob Kerr, Employment Officer for Warwickshire County Council’s WEST Service, said: “For too long people with learning disabilities have been denied the same opportunities as everyone else and yet they have the potential to become highly valued employees if given the right support. Paid employment, whether it is one hour a week or a full-time post, can turn someone’s life around and also deliver huge benefits to the employer.”
He added: “We would urge anyone with an interest to come along to find out more.”
The invitation is open to all, including people with learning disabilities and their families, professionals, local businesses and employers, schools and colleges, and members of the public who would like to find out more.
For more information or if you need assistance with transport please contact WEST on 02476 385 200.