UK ATHLETICS is set to continue its successful collaboration with the Hive College in Birmingham after linking up in 2017 to give young adults a chance to gain valuable work experience.
The Hive, who place young adults between the ages of 19-25 with non-behavioural disabilities with organisations for them to upskill towards permanent employment, started working with UK
Athletics late last year as part of the Disability Confident Leader commitment, and the project continues in 2018. UKA achieved the Disability Confident Leader level prior to the start of the World Para Athletics Championships London 2017 in recognition for work on disability for the championships and our internal policies and procedures. Within the governing body, the communications and major events teams welcomed a college student on a six-week placement carrying out a number of roles. The partnership will continue into 2018 with UKA supporting another student in gaining important work experience. Donna Fraser, Equality, diversity and inclusion lead at UK Athletics, said: “We are very proud of our commitment as a Disability Confident Leader and I am delighted to continue our work with the Hive College. Last year’s student found the placement incredibly useful; learning new skills and growing in confidence which is very encouraging for
all involved. “This is one of many initiatives we will be delivering throughout the year around disability. As we move towards a more diverse and inclusive organisation, this is a fantastic opportunity for us to work with The Hive and the remarkable students, who we are learning from too.” Julie Pallister, placements co-ordinator at the college, added: “The students have found the experiences of work very rewarding. It will help them to determine what strengths and skills they have and what vocation they would like to progress in. It is because of the experiences offered by employers and organisations like UK Athletics that have led to 80 per cent of our students progressing into paid employment.”
Click here to see the printed article