Cope Foundation initiative playing a vital role in creating Cork jobs   

Employers in Cork are invited to attend the Ability@Work business breakfast at Cork International Hotel on December 3.

Ability@Work, a programme run by Cope Foundation that enables people with intellectual disabilities to work, has created 141 paid employment opportunities since it was first established six years ago.

The plan is to support an additional 250 people to upskill and move in to paid jobs over the next five years. 

Seamus, supported by Ability@Work, said: “All my life, I have volunteered and worked hard daily without pay, because I love keeping busy, and meeting new people.

“I have been upskilling by doing courses, job shadows, and meeting my job coach to get ready for work. Having a paid job would mean everything to me. I would feel included in society, just like my family and friends.”

Job shadow days, internships, work placements, as well as free disability awareness training with in-work supports and advice are available to all employers.

Partnership

Strategic director of human resources, Trigon Hotels, Kathleen Linehan,said: “We have an ongoing partnership with Cope Foundation and have been working with the Ability@Work programme for five years. 

Along with facilitating up to 20 job shadow days throughout the years, we have taken on six people through the programme, many of whom have gone on to gain paid employment. They have been a welcome addition to our teams and I would encourage any employer to consider getting involved.”

The business breakfast takes place from 7.30am to 9.30am. It is free, but places are limited, so early registration is encouraged. Email hennessym@cope-foundation.ie to register. 

Ability@Work manager, Marian Hennessy, said: “We believe that every workplace can benefit from diverse perspectives and talents. This event will provide employers with valuable insights in to how they can attract and retain reliable and skilled workers.

“We’re calling on employers, both those already part of the programme and those who are considering joining, to create suitable employment opportunities for people we support.”