Huge congratulations to Tim who has won the coveted David Grainger Award at the British Association of Supported Employment Awards. Not only did Timothy triumph, so did his employers, Timpson Ltd who won first prize at this year’s Employer Practice winner. Timpson are the multi-national retailer who have their HQ in Wythenshawe, Manchester.
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Tim was presented with his award by Coronation Street actor, Liam Barstow and Diane Lightfoot, Director Policy and Communications at United Response.
From his first meeting with our WorkFit service, Tim displayed his enthusiasm and motivation. It was clear that his independence was very important to him and that his goal of securing paid work would allow him greater choice and control and the opportunity to consider independent living. His comment “I don’t want to be stuck with my mum and dad all my life” is one that will resonate with many people!
Tim welcomes responsibility and the opportunity to show what he can do, which, as Timpson Ltd have found out, is a great deal. Following a successful informal interview and work trial at Timpson in September 2015, Tim began a permanent paid role 2 days a week, working in the reception area, with additional responsibilities in the key department, training team and post room.
Tim’s mentor, Donna Johnson told us about the day Tim received his first pay slip. “He was quite overcome and so happy. He told me how proud his parents and his sister would be and immediately wanted to treat his colleagues at work to something nice. That is so typical of Tim to think of others before himself.”
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Tim has taken on new tasks and duties, learning constantly and ensuring that his contribution as a member of the team is significant and valuable. He was also named Timpson Employee of the Month in February 2016.
Feedback from Timpson has been incredibly positive. Laura Garside, Colleague Support Adviser says:
“Timothy is doing brilliantly; his work ethic and the quality of what he does are excellent and he is fully integrated into our workplace. His time-keeping is very good and I have every confidence in his abilities and commitment. We are looking forward to developing his role and supporting him to learn new skills.”
Tim is a huge asset to his employer, a valued and respected member of his community and a wonderful advocate for the success of supported employment and WorkFit.
Last night, at the BASE ceremony, Tim had to return to the stage with his colleague Donna Johnson to collect the Employer Practice Award on behalf of Timpson Ltd.
Timpson are a family run business who never forget that without employing great colleagues they wouldn’t have a business in the first place. They take the view that when colleagues are happy, they care about the service they provide which in turn is good for business. 50% of new recruits are recommended by an existing colleague.
Equality and diversity are embedded in Timpson’s core company values. They actively consider anyone for their vacancies as long as they are able to do the job. When they met Tim in September 2015, they were all impressed by his enthusiasm and felt that he would fit into the team very well. In Tim’s trial he showed aptitude to meet requirements of the role.
Over the past year Timpson have invested in training Tim in a variety of roles throughout the business, both at his office and also in a local branch. This has given him a better understanding of how they work as an organisation and how he fits into the company, making a valuable contribution in a variety of areas.
Timpson are committed to supporting Tim to develop his career and their values and practice are actively contributing towards supporting people to achieve their career aspirations, whatever their different abilities.
You can read about all of the winners at the BASE Awards here. You can see more of their photos follow BASE on twitter @base_tweets.