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You can't be what you can't see: Highlighting the success stories of residents with SEND in employment

In an inspiring collaboration, the supported internship team of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, together with Balance and Westminster Supported Employment (WE*), proudly present a special film screening.

The event highlights the remarkable journeys of five residents with SEND (Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities) who have successfully entered the job market.

We were excited to collaborate with youth-led creative media group, Base Productions in North Kensington, who produced the films. The local media group creates employment opportunities for young people with learning difficulties and neurodiverse conditions.

By showcasing these success stories, the project aims to raise awareness of the support mechanisms available to help individuals like them achieve their employment goals.

Providing employment opportunities for individuals with mild to moderate learning or physical disabilities improves their mental health and well-being by reducing isolation and encouraging community involvement. It also helps change perceptions by showcasing their abilities and raising awareness of their potential, rather than focusing on their limitations.

 

Group Photo at Curzon Screening

 

Councillor Nafsika Butler-Thalassis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Voluntary Sector and Lead Member for SEN and Learning Disabilities Champion said:

“The council remains committed to a forward-thinking approach for special educational needs and disabilities provision. The Westminster and RBKC Employment Service has been instrumental in helping our residents with SEND build confidence, develop skills, and access career opportunities. The short films have demonstrated the powerful impact of collaborating with local businesses and charities in helping individuals successfully enter the job market. It is inspiring to see these career journeys, and we are dedicated to ensuring these opportunities are available to all our residents with disabilities.” 

Meet the inspiring individuals:

  • Christopher is a business support officer at Bell Rock Group. Beginning as a supported intern, Christopher completed his Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship and later secured a permanent role after demonstrating exceptional pace of work and attention to detail. Reflecting on his journey, Christopher says. “I used to be shy and anxious, but working at Bell Rock for the past two years has made me braver.” Donna Sidey, Contract Services Manager adds, “Christopher has brought our team closer. He’s punctual, always greeting everyone by name, and ready to work at 8:30 every day.”

  • Faisa currently works as a receptionist at Westminster City Council. Her love for interacting with people and helping others develop their skills drives her aspiration to become a receptionist manager. Her line manager Michelle remarks, “Her confidence and skills have grown immensely, and she’s introduced new ideas and approaches to our work.”

  • Romell enjoys his role at the Apollo Theatre London, where he scans tickets, serves drinks, and assists customers. His work at the theatre has boosted his confidence and made him more vibrant and talkative. After discussions with Westminster Supported Employment, ATG Entertainment provided Romell with employment that suits his needs. Louise Eddens, Deputy General Manager at ATG Entertainment, describes Romell as “a committed, consistent, and reliable team member. His confidence, especially in customer engagement, has flourished.”

  • Rashedul found his place at Gambado, a children’s soft play centre, with the support from Balance Employment Service. Samsam Farah, Deputy Manager at Gambado, praises Rashedul: “His happiness is infectious. His energy is high, he’s very caring, and he ensures everyone is okay.” A customer at Gambado also shared that Rashedul’s story gave her hope that her own son with SEND could also find employment in the future.

  • Richard works as an Usher at the Curzon cinema but has a passion for gardening. As an outdoor enthusiast, he has volunteered over 80 hours with the Royal Parks, where he is valued as a “big part of the team who adds so much energy and commitment each week.” Richard’s dream is to one day start his own gardening business.

Here from Faisa who features in one of the films and works at Westminster City Council:

If you are a local business interested in getting involved:

Please visit:

Or get in touch with [email protected]

 

Published: 20 August 2024