Cork inclusive jobs project has been a big success

WorkAbility’s Cork programme has marked its first anniversary, celebrating a year of transforming employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Delivered in collaboration between Secad Partnership and Cork Chamber, the programme has supported 80 participants to gain new skills, confidence, and pathways toward meaningful employment.

WorkAbility Cork supports employers and jobseekers in creating and accessing more inclusive and diverse workplaces throughout the region, empowering individuals of all abilities to find work while helping businesses embrace inclusive recruitment and practices.

The milestone was marked with a showcase event on November 18 at Penrose Dock, bringing together programme participants, employers, and community partners to highlight the progress achieved since the project’s launch last year.

Speaking following the event, Rob Horgan, president of Cork Chamber said: “Inclusion strengthens and enriches both our workplaces and our communities.

“The WorkAbility project demonstrates how collaboration between business and community partners can create real opportunity and belonging, helping Cork to thrive as a region where everyone has a place and a purpose.”

Ryan Howard, CEO of Secad Partnership, said the showcase event also coincided with Secad’s 30th anniversary, and that they were “extremely proud” of the initiative and all 80 of their participants.

“With 18 progressed into employment, 23 completing accredited training in areas such as food safety and hospitality, and 15 gaining job-shadowing experience, this is just the beginning. This initiative is only getting going and we see huge potential for it,” he added.

Trevor O’Neill, a programme participant currently completing an internship with NetApp, said WorkAbility helped him regain confidence and develop the skills needed to pursue his dream job: “It opened doors to opportunities I never imagined possible.”

Emma Palmer, talent outreach manager EMEA at NetApp, said: “Welcoming our first participant into the company was seamless thanks to the guidance and support from Secad and Cork Chamber.”