In a blog post about a recent event we went to, our Project Worker Oliver Heap spoke about going out ‘netwalking’ with our friends from Lighthouse Futures Trust. Here, he talks about his experience and what it means to be an inclusive employer.
I recently went on a Netwalk, a concept of networking but whilst on a walk, with Lighthouse Futures Trust and some of my work colleagues at Meanwood Park. It was an outdoor meet for people with learning disabilities as well as staff working with them to learn about our services, what jobs we do, and our inclusiveness and accessibility.
Prior to the day, I discovered that there was a bus within a 10 min walk. The walk to the park from the bus was very peaceful. I was the first of the Asking You team to arrive at the park. There, I met some of the Lighthouse staff including Elinor, who recognised me from when I went there on a supported internship for a year, as well as Ruth who was the employment coach.
I enjoyed being outside and walking as it made it more relaxed. It felt more comfortable for me to talk to people about questions they asked me, such as “what do you do?”.
Inclusive employer
I came with some of my colleagues to talk about our experience of being an employer who is inclusive. During the walk, I talked about the support we offer and out job roles we do.
I talked about the things I’d been doling over the last few months, such as taking our first people out on journeys for the Travel with Confidence project and doing training sessions as well as the challenges I had to overcome and what has helped me.
I also felt proud in sharing my stories and being part of something positive. I really enjoyed going on a Netwalk at Meanwood Park, it was an amazing experience. It was a great opportunity to meet up with some people new and some I previously met when I was with Lighthouse Futures Trust, and think about our future in employment.
