1985
Shaw Trust is moving beyond Wiltshire’s boundaries. Nobody expected it to grow the way it has but we operate professionally and realise Wiltshire isn’t unique in its challenges. We know we have something that works, something we can replicate elsewhere.
Minister for Social Services and the Disabled, Tony Newton attends a celebration dinner for our 250th placement. In his speech, he draws attention to the increasing role played by the voluntary sector in helping disabled people into employment.
We believe disadvantaged and disabled people deserve not only the opportunity to work, but to take holidays – like everyone else. Shaw Trust offers its fi rst facilitated holiday to Jersey for people accessing the Sheltered Placement Scheme.
Many other holidays for disabled people are very structured and organised – almost like a school trip. This is an ordinary holiday with Shaw Trust staff on hand. People pay for themselves and are responsible for themselves. They can do what they want, go shopping, go to the beach, make their own choices – but support is there if needed. We witness how independence provides a great boost to all round development and confidence.
1986
Our signature programme is not without teething problems. If employers decide they no longer want to employ people with disabilities we must fi nd them alternative placements. But surely this can’t happen under employment legislation? We argue that companies are still governed by employment legislation.
Employment Minister Ian Lang makes a presentation to Jackie McKenzie, the 2,000th person to get a job through the Sheltered Employment scheme. Lang comments: "Employment means the chance for the disabled to be appreciated for their abilities ...severely disabled people have a real contribution to make to the economic life of this country."
Tim Pape is asked to join the government’s National Advisory Committee for the Employment of People with Disabilities, underlining the growing reputation and success of Shaw Trust.
Not everyone referred to Shaw Trust is immediately ready for work. Some people need further training to prepare them for the workplace. We set up a pilot scheme in Hereford where people with disabilities are trained for work, learning everything from numeracy to social skills. This becomes known as the Shaw Trust Centre.
Back to 1983 - 1984
