Galway’s employers are set to benefit from the launch of a new pioneering Employment Toolkit to assist organisations to recruit, retain and respect those with disabilities in the workforce.

The toolkit, which has been developed by Galway City Partnership in close co-operation with people with disabilities, is funded by the Department of Social Protection’s WorkAbility: Inclusive Pathways to Employment Programme.

Minister for Disability and Galway West Fine Gael TD, Hildegarde Naughton, told the launch gathering on Friday that projects funded under the Programme incorporated a strong focus on employer engagement, raising employers’ awareness and building their capacity to recruit, retain and progress people with disabilities in their workforce.

“Galway City Partnership, people with disabilities, the city’s employers and all the programme partners have risen to the challenge of the programme in a very relevant and unique way and I commend them for what they have achieved,” she added.

The toolkit highlights practical ways that employers can benefit from a more inclusive and innovative workplace and is part of wider framework of wrap-around supports for People with Disabilities offered by Galway City Partnership.

The gathering was attended by many who have direct experience of barriers to accessing the workplace or progressing and they described not only their experience but the loss to businesses and society in general when people’s potential is denied.

Lisa Madden, who shared her own workplace story, said: “Meeting with the team on WorkAbility has given me a strength I didn’t think I had. I can stand up for myself particularly in work situations and even have been able to take on extra hours.”

Maggie Woods of Galway City Partnership said: “This toolkit provides practical, step-by-step resources to help you implement inclusive hiring practices. Whether you’re just starting or looking to enhance your efforts, this guide will support you every step of the way.”

She encouraged the city’s employers to use the Toolkit

“Being part of this programme, you are building an inclusive workplace and this is  also a strategic advantage. Employers who hire individuals with disabilities are guaranteed to see increased productivity, creativity, and employee loyalty.”

Programme partners include Galway City Partnership, Galway Chamber of Commerce, Galway Roscommon Education & Training Board, EmployAbility Galway, Access for All and Brothers of Charity Western Region.

Workability: Inclusive Pathways to Employment Programme is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union.

Pictured: Mayor of Galway, Cllr Peter Keane, and Minister for Disability, Hildegarde Naughton with Linda Sice, Maggie Woods and Tommy Flaherty of Galway City Partnership at the launch of the WorkAbility Employer Toolkit.  Photo: Andrew Downes, xposurE.