Celebration of success

It was a proud moment for members of Warrington Disability Partnerships Employment Team as two individuals they have supported were presented with awards at the Training Network Group 'Pathways to Work' launch event for Cheshire and Warrington on 1st September at the Holiday Inn in Ellesmere Port.

Rachel Gray and Clive Crossingham have both returned to full time employment supported by WDP's Employment Advisors and Job Coach.

Rachel is working as a merchandiser at Debenham's flagship store in Warrington and alongside her manager Helen Seddon received her trophy from the Rt Hon Stephen Timms MP, Minister of State for Employment and Welfare Reform.

Clive is working for Warrington Disability Partnership as a Volunteer Support Worker with responsibility for coordinating outings on the 'Wizard' accessible narrow boat and was unable to attend the event as he was at work on the Bridgewater Canal. His commitment and success was highlighted in a pen-picture which formed part of the event programme.

The launch event included a marketplace of exhibitors where WDP stood alongside some of the UK's largest employment support agencies including Job Centre Plus, Richmond fellowship and leading businesses. Presentations were given by the Rt Hon Stephen Timms MP, Minister of State for Employment and Welfare Reform , Dave Thompson MBE DL Chairman of WDP and Mark Wilson OBE, District Manager for Job Centre Plus. The presentations complimented the theme of delivering employment support from government strategy to regional and local support.

Warrington Disability Partnership has been working in conjunction with TNG and provides person centred support for people currently on Incapacity Benefit who volunteer to enter the 'Pathways' programme. The Department for Work and Pensions has piloted the project which has now been rolled out nationwide. The aim is to provide a better choice for people on health related benefits who want to return to the workplace.

Since the beginning of May Warrington Disability Partnership has registered 74 IB claimants on 'Pathways' and already 15 of these have entered full time employment. A positive example of successful partnership working between the private and voluntary sector.

For more details about the 'Pathways' programme contact Warrington Disability Partnership Employment Team on 01925 240064 or email: employmentteam@disabilitypartnership.org.uk