The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Southport prove they are an inclusive employer

The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Southport has been working with the Down’s Syndrome Association’s WORKFIT programme to ensure the staff team can support their new colleague, Diane in her new paid, permanent role as sales adviser. WORKFIT supports people with Down’s syndrome to access meaningful work opportunities.

The team at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill were determined to give a work opportunity to someone with Down’s syndrome to promote equality and diversity within their workforce as they recognise the significant benefits of employing a workforce that reflects the diversity of Southport’s community.

Diane is a hugely popular member of staff and works in a team that are enthusiastic and committed to supporting her.

Diane says: 

“I’ve learned a lot about the products and I know the store layout well. It’s a good team here and I really enjoy working with Carol and Teresa and I like everyone a lot. I open the new stock and have to use the till system to check prices. Some things in the sale need to have a new price tag so I do that.  I work hard to remember what I need to do. I’m excited about learning to use the tills. I’m taking my mum to the new Costa Coffee shop for a treat when I get paid and I’m going to buy some new jeans and some CDs.”

Diane is very popular with her customers.  It makes her happy when someone she knows comes into the shop and sees her working there. She really enjoys it, likes everyone and looks forward to work.

Store manager Teresa Gourley says: 

“Diane is coming out of her shell more and you can see her confidence growing. She is quite literally a ray of sunshine and she has fit effortlessly into the team. She is a great example of how someone with Down’s syndrome can be a great asset in the workplace. Employing Diane has been an overwhelmingly positive experience for everyone and, on a personal level,  it has really made me think about what’s important and how easy it is to be more inclusive when the rewards are a new member of the team who is reliable, motivated, excited to learn and willing to work hard.  I’m so glad that I signed up to WorkFit and have been able to give Diane an opportunity to start her career in the retail sector. It’s inspired me to look at other areas where I can make a difference to someone’s life and I would say to any employers out there that they should “go for it” and not be afraid as the positive impact and rewards of participating are amazing.”

Diane’s parents Barbara and David are thrilled with her success in securing the job: 

“We are delighted that Diane is performing well and that Teresa and the team are so positive about her. We would strongly recommend WorkFit to any parents who are having difficulty in finding a job for their child. WorkFit is a tried and tested programme achieving wonderful results. It has been a pleasure discussing Diane’s hopes for her future and it’s great that WorkFit can provide such support to individuals with Down’s syndrome and help parents through, what can sometimes be a daunting concept of seeing their child enter the world of work.”

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