People
with Learning Disabilities Encouraged to Volunteer in the
Workplace
A
new project that enables people with learning disabilities
to volunteer in the workplace was launched in Waltham
Forest during National Learning Disability Awareness Week
(18-25 June 2006)
National
volunteering charity, TimeBank has teamed up with
Equalities National Council to encourage people with
learning disabilities , particularly from Black and
Minority Ethnic communities, as well as voluntary sector
organisations to sign up to Volunteering Lives.
Tarela Diffa-Umeri, Volunteering Lives Programme Manager
says: "There are currently around 700 people registered
with a learning disability with Waltham Forest, yet few
opportunities exist for them to volunteer on their own or
with one-to-one support. Volunteering Lives gives them the
chance to try out volunteering for one month and if they
like it, they can think about pursuing education
opportunities or further work experience related to what
they have done. It aims to give people with learning
disabilties the encouragement and support they need to
develop new skills and increase their confidence in a
working environment."
Volunteers are matched with an organisation that is suited
to their interests, and they carry out tasks ranging from
general office duties, gardening and cooking to working
with animals or helping people to play sport. Volunteers
have the option of a session support worker who offers
guidance and assistance if needed. They also receive
expenses for the duration of their assignment.
Omair Khan lives in Leytonstone with his mother, who is his
full-time carer. Omair has learning disabilities and
cerebral palsy. He started volunteering for London based
charity Green-Works, helping with administration, and is
accompanied by a support worker, Paul Iwerebor. He says: "I
like working in the office and I am learning how to type
and to answer the telephone. I am happy that Paul is with
me, because he is helping me."
Isabella Scott, Office Administrator at Green-Works said:
"Omair has spent a few days volunteering with Green-Works
and he is keen to learn and develop his skills. During his
time with us, he has done basic data entry, photocopying
and binding brochures, which he has proved to enjoy. He has
also really helped me out!"
For more information about the project, or to register as a
volunteer or an organisation interested in taking on a
volunteer, please contact:
Tarela Diffa-Umeri.
Tel: 0207 785 6376
Email: t.diffa-umerai@timebank.org.uk
www.timebank.org.uk/mediacentre
