The Adult Learning Disability Day Services presented Manx MENCAP with a beautifully renovated bench to mark their golden anniversary. The bench was refurbished by Eastcliffe Resource Industrial Centre (ERIC), one of the service areas of the Day Centre, which provides employment to people with disabilities.
Sheila Orton, Manager of the Day Centre said:
'I am privileged to present MENCAP with this anniversary gift. The bench has been beautifully restored by members of the Social Firm of Day Services. During my 20 years of service I have witnessed the diverse support provided by MENCAP, from providing equipment to most recently funding two support staff for a two year period. We are grateful and thankful to MENCAP for all the support we have received, and it is a great feeling that after they have given so much to help us, we can give something back.'
Mrs Orton went on to say:
'The Supported Employment Scheme is the way forward in modernising the Day Services we provide. Now users can find employment and be supported to achieve their goals and receive real wages. Others will be supported to experience work outside of the service in a voluntary capacity, and will further develop their skills.'
The Day Services Supported Employment Scheme was launched in December 2011 thanks to a donation from MENCAP of £30,000, which provided 30 hours of support a week to adults with learning disabilities to access and maintain employment. MENCAP have renewed their support to the project for another year with a further donation of £30,000. This has allowed the Day Services team to extend to a 37 hour a week service. The Supported Employment team currently provide support to 8 people who are now in employment and is also looking for employment for 3 further people.
The event was also the last for Sheila Orton as she is due to retire after 20 years in service. Dee Diment, Joint Manager of the Day Service said:
'It is sad that Sheila is leaving us but this was a fantastic and memorable way to mark Sheila’s 20 years with us.'
