Newcastle City Council

There aren’t many people who love their job as much as Diane.

Diane is a part-time administrative assistant at Northumbria University’s School of Health, Community and Education Studies. She is kept busy by supporting a range of activities such as enrolment and mail sorting. It’s not just the variety which Diane loves – it’s the friendships she has made with colleagues, and the opportunity she has been given.

Diane started on a 12-week placement at the school as part of the council’s WorkFirst initiative. They arrange work experience and skills development for people with disabilities, with a view to supporting them into longer term employment.

That’s exactly what happened with Diane. Her team were so impressed with her abilities, that they now employ her on a permanent basis. Diane is really pleased as she can continue to learn skills, whilst meeting new people and sharing experiences.

Joanne Barlow, Care Services Officer for the WorkFirst scheme, arranged the placement, and said, “We feel it is important to concentrate on people’s strengths, not their disabilities. Diane is a hardworking, outgoing, friendly person who makes everyone feel at ease.”

Dr Pamela Inglis, Academic Head of Preregistration Nursing, added, “People with learning disabilities make valuable contributions to the workplace, raising morale, and helping people feel more relaxed about talking to disabled people.”

If you are interested in finding out more about WorkFirst and how you can support the scheme, email WorkFirst@newcastle.gov.uk or phone 0191 278 8334.