September 2024 is very important month for Luke as he reaches two significant personal and professional milestones.
Firstly, Luke celebrates his 8 year work anniversary with Wiltshire Police as an Administrator in the Crime & Communications Centre in Devizes. Luke absolutely loves his role and working with his team. His duties see him providing administrative support to frontline Operations Control Room colleagues.
In 2016 Luke registered for the Downs Syndrome Association employment programme, which brings together and supports employers and job-seekers who have Downs Syndrome.
Luke joined Wiltshire Police as a volunteer shortly after. A respectful, hardworking, rather shy young gentleman who dreamt of having a paid job. His dreams came true following a short successful voluntary placement when he was offered a paid contract with Wiltshire Police. He has certainly flourished ever since. Luke was awarded a ‘Force Certificate of Appreciation in the presence of his colleagues and very proud family. He also studied hard to complete and achieve a ‘Employability Skills’ award with City & Guilds.
Lukes confidence has grown tremendously over the years. He represented Wiltshire Police at a number of Employability, Diversity and Inclusion conferences where he has delivered key note speeches to large groups about the benefits of his role and what it means to him.
Luke is always very keen to encourage others to try and experience work. His message always consistent and inspiring; “ It can be hard at first, a great opportunity and good fun, just be yourself “
Without doubt, Luke is a loyal and dedicated member of Wiltshire Police staff and in May 2024 he was chosen to present Chief Constable Roper with her Coronation Medal.
Luke works incredibly hard, however there is always some time for a little fun. Luke is always very proactive is raising awareness of World Downs Syndrome Day where he has sold a great number of odd socks to his police colleagues to fund raise and support his local Swindon Downs Syndrome Group and the Downs Syndrome Association; Well done, Luke!
Luke now proudly wears his new Police Staff uniform, he looks and feels part of his team, very smart Luke.
And finally, September also sees Lukes celebrate his 30th Birthday. A special day indeed.
Have a wonderful, fabulous, brilliant birthday Luke; you are such an inspiration to all.
Thank you to all of our employers for their continued support of our WorkFit programme, and good luck to everyone starting new roles this month.
To find out more about WorkFit and how we support people who have Down’s syndrome to access meaningful work opportunities that can benefit the rest of their lives, please contact the team on 0333 12 12 300 or email us on dsworkfit@downs-syndrome.org.uk For more information visit the WorkFit website: www.dsworkfit.org.uk