The conference was held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York to raise awareness of employment issues for people with Down’s syndrome. It provided an opportunity for those with Down’s syndrome to share their employment expectations and experiences and show how it relates to their fundamental human rights.
There were presentations from people with Down’s syndrome, disability organisations, employers, service providers and others from around the world including North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia.
Kate Powell who works at the DSA was amongst the many delegates with Down’s syndrome who shared their experiences. Kate also introduced the WorkFit programme.
Veronica Mulenga (Employment Development Officer) outlined the project’s successes as well as the challenges that arise when making employment a reality for people with Down’s syndrome. These included encouraging Further Education colleges to raise aspirations and provide real work experience opportunities for students to prepare them for work, as well as involving Disability Employment Advisers at an earlier stage.
As well as raising awareness on employment issues for people with Down’s syndrome, the conference was a truly inspiring experience for everyone who attended.
If you would like to view the video recording, you can go to:
http://www.worlddownsyndromeday.org/wdsd-conference-2013
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For more information about WorkFit please contact the team on 0333 12 12 300 or email us on dsworkfit@downs-syndrome.org.uk
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