Opening The Door to Employment

According to Mencap, only 5.1% of people with learning disabilities in England are in paid employment. Further research also shows that only 1 in 4 people with long-term mental health conditions are in work. 

It’s clear from these statistics alone that getting, and holding down, a job can be incredibly difficult. But, when people with learning disabilities and mental health needs are supported in a way that works for them; are visible and valued in the workplace – it creates a powerful shift in perception. 

The more employers support people who may need extra guidance when pursuing careers, the more we challenge the statistics, outdated assumptions and instead highlight the strengths and talent everyone can bring to organisations. 

We’d like to introduce you to Liam and Connor, two people who live at a Supported Living service in Hampshire. For both, they have always aimed for one thing – finding a job they love.  

So that’s exactly what the team, led by Marie, supported them to achieve. The journey for both Liam and Connor has really helped to build their confidence, skills and independence.  

Connor is also making incredible strides with the support of his team. Every Thursday, he volunteers with the Choice Care maintenance department. He’s really part of the team, taking part in painting, basic plumbing, putting up shelves and much more.  

According to Marie, Connor absolutely thrives in this role. 

“He enjoys the hands-on work, the practical nature of the tasks and the sense of achievement that comes with the job.”

“We’re so pleased to how much of a positive impact this opportunity has had on Connor.” 

When Liam, with the support of his team, began exploring employment opportunities, they stumbled across a local charity shop who were looking for an extra pair of hands. After an interview and a few introductions to the senior team members at the shop, Liam began volunteering to gain experience.  

Since then, through his hard work and determination, Liam has secured a consistent role in the charity shop and works three days a week. On a day-to-day basis, he gets involved with general tasks but really enjoys cleaning the toys ready to go on sale! 

At first, Liam was supported to travel to and from work, but as his confidence grew; he now commutes independently. But Liam and his team didn’t stop here and have kept striving for more. Liam now also has a role at a local coffee shop once a week. He’s quickly learning the ropes and is becoming an excellent barista, confidently making drinks and helping to keep the shop clean and welcoming.  

Marie, Liam’s Support Manager, said:

“This has been brilliant for Liam, his motivation and confidence has just grown and grown.”

“He really likes his colleagues; they really like him and appreciate his hard work! Not only has he found more purpose and joy in his week, but he has also become much more active, with his 20-minute walk to and from work!” 

Liam and Connor are proof that with the right encouragement and belief, people can achieve far more than the limits society has placed on them. 

Their success isn’t just personal; it challenges outdated assumptions and shows employers what meaningful contributions they can bring to their teams once they challenge their own biases. 

Every time someone with different support needs is welcomed into the working world, we become one step closer to shifting perceptions and building communities that thrive on inclusion. 

Liam, Connor and many other wonderful people’s stories remind us that meaningful employment of people with learning disabilities and mental health needs should never be an exception, but instead an expectation.