We learned that the number of people with learning disabilities in work remains as low as 6% which means that 94% of people are still unemployed. We learned that being in work is beneficial for peoples health, mental well-being and financial independence. We heard some wonderful examples of organisations around the UK who, like Little Gate, are tackling this problem so that people with learning disabilities can be included at work.
We heard from large employers who have taken the decision to employ people with learning disabilities including XPO Logistics, an internet order fulfilment centre which has created several job opportunities.
We laughed till we cried listening to comedian, Francesca Martinez, talking about her own experience of being ‘different’.
We really enjoyed the Conference and came away with lots of useful information which will help us in our mission to support people with learning disabilities and autism into paid employment.