Growth, respect, opportunity and wellbeing – the hallmarks of a meaningful new initiative that sees urban oasis Airfield Estate teaming up with Gather + Gather to open doors to paid employment for people with intellectual disabilities.
The new partnership centres on Airfield’s GROW programme, a practical, hands-on initiative delivering supported work across the estate, with opportunities ranging from farming and horticulture to hospitality.
With figures compiled by the Disability Federation of Ireland showing that there are just 32.6% of people with disabilities in work here, compared with an EU average of 51.3%, the initiative is clearly a timely one.
Speaking about the organisation’s involvement, Claire MacEvilly, CEO of Airfield Estate, said the partnership reflects a practical approach to inclusion, adding, “GROW is about delivering real outcomes through employment. Working with our restaurant partners Gather & Gather allows us to move beyond short-term placements and create genuine pathways into work for people who are too often excluded from the labour market.”
Participants will gain skills-based experience at Overends Kitchen and beyond, supported by dedicated trainers and clear pathways into paid roles.
With a number of past GROW participants already thriving in jobs with Gather + Gather and other employers, the initiative is already providing clear evidence that when the seed of opportunity is planted properly, it grows.
We wish all involved every success in this brilliant new venture.
