New Employment Officer Will Help More People with Down’s Syndrome Find Jobs

Author
Ian Larrard
Director - Swindon & Wiltshire Initiative | Business West
26th May 2022

A retired police Control Room Manager of more than 40 years has joined forces with the Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group and the Down’s Syndrome Association’s ‘WorkFit’ programme to help more people who have Down’s syndrome in the Wiltshire and Gloucestershire area find employment. Roy Perrett dedicates his time to providing local knowledge and ongoing support to employers and candidates looking for work. 

“I feel very honoured and excited to commence in such a fabulous role. It is such a wonderful opportunity to support the group members, to make a real difference and change people’s lives.”

Roy works two days a week as the WorkFit Liaison Officer for the Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group. He covers the areas of Swindon, Fairford, Malmsbury, Hungerford, Pewsey, Marlborough, Hullavington, Chippenham, Devizes, Calne, Aston Keynes, Cirencester, Aldbourne, Bromham, Melksham and Cheltenham. 

Since 2015, the partnership between the Down Syndrome Association’s (DSA) WorkFit programme and the Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group has been providing a tailored employment programme for people who have the condition in Swindon and Wiltshire. It is a specialist service dedicated to training employers about the learning profile of people who have Down’s syndrome so that they can be supported in the workplace. It was through the partnership that Roy first came across the programme.

“I first came in to contact with WorkFit in 2015, attending a group coffee morning. I listened to parents and young people who had Down’s syndrome about their attempts to find work. I remember feeling sad and frustrated as they explained about the barriers and challenges routinely faced. 

I was determined to act and reached out to WorkFit to offer a workplace opportunity at Wiltshire Police. I was introduced to a wonderful young gentleman called Luke who has Down’s syndrome. He initially became a volunteer administrator in the Control Room and then fully deserved paid employment. I remember the pride on his face on receiving his first employment contract. It was a wonderful moment. Luke also went on to achieve his NVQ in Employability Skills, inspiring the force to create other workplace opportunities for others who have Down’s syndrome.”

Roy is looking to engage with local businesses who may be interested in providing an opportunity for someone who has Down’s syndrome. Work can be anything from paid jobs, volunteering roles, work experience or traineeships. 

If you have a work opportunity to offer, please Register here.

Or, if you just wish to learn more about our WorkFit employment programme please contact Roy on; 

Email; workfitswindon@downs-syndrome.org.uk

Mobile; 07391 836006 (working days Thursday & Friday)

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