We recently sat down with Omar, who is supported by Unity Works’ WorkTrain Greenwich Supported Employment Programme, to find out more about his journey in finding work. As well as paid work for Odeon in Greenwich and Charlton Athletic Football Club, he volunteers for the London Air Ambulance and is passionate about inspiring other people with a learning disability to get into work.
Tell us about your current work:
[In] 2019 I started working with the Odeon as a
minibus driver but since the pandemic started in 2020, they stopped the minibus service and my role changed to an usher. I enjoy this work. I enjoy checking all the tickets and viewing the latest movies for free. My favourite film is Avengers End Game that I watched 8 times!”
[I also work] for Charlton Stadium as a turn style operator and I have recently been promoted to a Safety Supervisor. I have completed a spectator Safety NVQ Level 2 and ACT counter terrorism training qualification in February 2023. I enjoy this work and my favourite part about this work is when I help people to interact with others.
“[I also have] two volunteering jobs – first one is a stroke ambassador for the Stroke Association. I go out and talk about to prevent a stroke, risks around getting a stroke.
[I have also volunteered with the] London Air Ambulance since 2009. [I] interact with other people, give them information, and talk to members of the public about what London Air Ambulance does.What skills have you developed in work?
“I got all the skills. I’m first aid trained”.
Unity Works has been excellent supporting me to meet my goals. I appreciate the help with CVs, informing me when the next jobs fair is going to be. I wanted to get a job and I was able to get a job, In the future I want to do driving
Why did you join the WorkTrain Greenwich programme?
[I joined the WorkTrain Greenwich programme to get] more confidence, more help and support to find work and I also want to encourage others.Is there anything else you want to share about yourself?
[After having a stroke and multiple health concerns, I enjoy] helping other people get their confidence back after having a stroke.