Unity Works has a long history of supporting people with a learning disability to identify appropriate job opportunities and develop a plan for securing employment, based on their skills, interests and aspirations. Our team of Employment Advisors guide people through any application or interview process and provide in-work support to help people develop their career.
Lorna is supported by our Southwark Works Employment Services and has recently started a new job at a school in Clapham. Here, we look back at her employment journey over recent years. 
When we first met Lorna , she expressed a strong desire to work in education. After having gained experience volunteering at a local nursery, she moved into another volunteering placement at a school. Here, she learnt Makaton and skills to work with special needs students. She also imparted tips and suggestions to her colleague from her own lived experience.
When her youngest daughter moved into primary school, Lorna decided to start looking for a paid role. We supported Lorna with updating her CV and applying and preparing her for interviews. We also put Lorna in contact with Dress for Success, an organisation that supports women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support and professional clothing. Lorna used this time to also embark on more volunteering opportunities to build up her CV.
At the start of the COVID-19 enforced lockdown, Lorna had successfully interviewed for several roles and had been offered two conditional job offers! In the end, Lorna decided to accept a role that she felt would allow her to grow in the field of her choice. She started her new job in September and is busy getting to know her colleagues. We’ve since provided Lorna with a tablet with an integrated voice note function to support her in typing up reports and communications in her new role.
Lorna ’s journey has shown how hard work and commitment, and patience will get your where you want to go.