25 April 2017
By Bryan Smyth
bryan@TheCork.ie
Local News
Tomorrow, 26th April 2017 Cope Foundation, an organisation providing support and services to 2,350 people with intellectual disability and/or autism in 65 locations across Cork City and County, will participate in and launch the ‘Job Shadow Day Initiative 2017’ as part of the National Job Shadow Week, in conjunction with the Irish Association Of Supported Employment (IASE).
The Job Shadow Initiative is a hugely important campaign to promote equal employment opportunities in the workplace. Cope Foundation is calling on businesses (large or small) across Cork City and County to open their minds and take part this year.
Participants supported by Cope Foundation will explore the world of work by ‘shadowing’ someone in a chosen work place. They will learn what happens during a normal working day and will be supported by a Mentor in the work place they visit.
The ‘Job Shadow Day Initiative’ is designed to give people with disabilities a unique opportunity to investigate the world of work and learn about job requirements and employer expectations. Employers of all types throughout Cork are invited to participate in the scheme over the coming months. They will gain an increased understanding of the talent of job seekers with disabilities and how these workers can meet their staffing needs.
Jamie Murray, who attends Cope Foundation’s DORAS Training Centre said: “In 2016, I completed my Job Shadow Day with Janssen in Little Island. I spent the day shadowing the reception staff and helping with queries and reception duties. The staff were very helpful showing me what to do. It was really interesting to see how Janssen works.”
In 2016 over 80 people supported by Cope Foundation participated in the scheme. We are calling on businesses in Cork to get involved this year and open their doors to people who want to learn about the work place. “We want as many employers as possible to get involved in the Job Shadow Initiative 2017. It promotes awareness in the work place, challenges attitudes and perceptions and encourages a more inclusive work place. Participants learn so much by being part of the workforce, discovering and learning about what is required to compete and succeed in today’s workplace, even just for one day. It is more important than ever in these tough economic times that employers in Cork continue to show their support for people with disabilities, and open their minds to new placements and work experience.” Marian Hennessy, Employment Development DORAS Training Services, Cope Foundation and Director of the IASE.
Other employers who participated in 2016 include: Cork Chamber Of Commerce, Marks & Spencer’s, Cork Institute Of Technology, Cork County Council, Cork City Council, Anglesea Street Garda Station, Watercourse Road Garda Station, The Central Statistics Office, St. Lukes Nursing Home, Vibes & Scribes, Heatons Stores, Cork City Football Club, Bord Gais, Cork City Fire Brigade, Musgraves Marketplace, and many more.
To pledge your business as part of the Job Shadow Initiative or for further information, contact Marian Hennessy at hennessym@cope-foundation.ie or phone 021-4643160.
