Seeking local businesses and organisations in Gwynedd to offer employment opportunities

Cyngor Gwynedd is looking for businesses and other organisations locally that would be able to offer opportunities for adults with learning disabilities to take a step towards the world of work.

The scheme – which is operated through the Learning Disability Team at Cyngor Gwynedd's social services – is designed to support adults with disabilities or other difficulties to access employment opportunities.

In Gwynedd, almost 100 individuals are on Cyngor Gwynedd's Work Opportunities Scheme, and they receive training and experience in the world of work. By gaining new skills and building confidence, it is hoped that they can progress to long-term paid work and contribute to the community, and in fact 37 have now taken this step. 

The service currently has agreements in place with Caernarfon Town Council, supermarkets, organisations and businesses such as Williams Homes in Bala, Siop Llanaelhaearn and Premier Inn in Porthmadog.

Two of the individuals who regularly work thanks to the scheme are Iwan and Llŷr.

Iwan carries out maintenance work for Caernarfon Town Council and is responsible for keeping the facilities at Parc Coed Helen clean and tidy.

He said: “I keep the place clean and tidy. I check if the park is tidy, I clean and open the toilets and clean the changing rooms⁠. I like the work.”

Llŷr is a talented musician and works for a company called Bwthyn Sonic playing the piano to different audiences in Gwynedd and Môn.

Richard 'Jonjo' Jones, Work Opportunities Support Worker within Cyngor Gwynedd's social services, explained:

“I love seeing the people I work with get work and pay, otherwise they would be in day service and may not reach their full potential of being able to take on responsibility and be able to contribute fully to society.

“Research conducted by North Wales Together shows that two in three adults with a learning disability say they want paid work. But at the moment, unfortunately, fewer than 5% in north Wales earn a wage. By working together, we can all be part of the jigsaw to get more people into the world of work.

“A lot of work goes on behind the scenes to get the right work placement for the individual. To prepare them for the workplace, we will discuss everything with them and also talk to their families.

“We also support the business or organisation to make sure everyone knows what's going on and training is also available. It is possible to arrange work experience initially before moving on to full employment.

“If there's a business or organisation out there that would like to be involved – from a small family business to a large company or charity – we'd love to speak to you and see what's possible.

“By being part of the scheme, you could bring about change for the individual and their family. Getting to work alongside other people and earn a wage gives immeasurable pride and self-confidence. Everyone involved is better off and can learn from the experience.”

For more information and for an informal chat, contact the team via CyfleoeddGwaith@gwynedd.llyw.cymru