The recent Thrive programme has been a resounding success in the Lisburn and Castlereagh area with 30 graduates attending a ceremony at Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn today (27 June).
The programme provided pathways to employment for individuals with a disability or health condition. Stepping Stones delivered it on behalf of the Lisburn and Castlereagh Labour Market Partnership.
The Lisburn and Castlereagh Labour Market Partnership, which creates targeted employment action plans to support individuals across the council area, is funded by the Department for Communities and the council. The partnership is based on collaboration at local and regional level to support people towards and into work.
Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Alderman Amanda Grehan whose theme for the year is ‘inclusivity for disabilities – a city that sees everyone’ welcomed the graduates. She said she was very proud of all the individuals and wished them well in their new roles.
Councillor Claire Kemp, Regeneration & Growth Chair said: “I commend Stepping Stones on their commitment to helping those with a disability or a health condition overcome barriers to employment. As a council we want to see people thrive regardless of their circumstances and can achieve this through partnership working with central government and charities like Stepping Stones.
“Those living with a disability or health condition should feel valued and able to contribute to our local economy. The Thrive programme has helped with this and demonstrates the importance of inclusion being woven into workplace values, policies and procedures in organisations across our city.”