Disability Champion Initiative
As part of a new Disability in Local Councils Initiative, three ‘Disability Champions’ have been appointed for Craigavon Borough Council. The aim of the initiative is to promote greater disability equality in local government and to create a network of “Disability Champions” across Northern Ireland. These champions will have the role of actively promoting the equality agenda for people with disabilities, both in employment and access to services.
Councillor Mrs Meta Crozier has been appointed as Champion at councillor level. Jayne Murphy, HR Assistant for Equality and Clare Weir, Community Sports Active Inclusion Officer, have been appointed as Disability Champions at officer level.
Almost one in five people of working age in Northern Ireland have a disability, but are severely under-represented in the workplace and in public, political and civic life. The Champions are there to do as their name suggests - champion disability across the organisation and engage with staff with disabilities. It is hoped that this new initiative will help remove the barriers which prevent people with disabilities making the most of their talents and potential and encourage more people to use Council services, obtain employment in local government and even stand for election.
“The Disability Champions are all about improving the representation of people with disabilities in our workforce and having a specific point of contact for the public,” commented Councillor Mrs Meta Crozier at the launch of the initiative recently.
“Council is committed to making change for people with disabilities and ensuring that the correct support is available to those who need it. Disability provision is high on Council’s agenda and we hope that through the Champions we will be able to offer a quality service that people with disabilities will be able to avail of.”
For further information contact Jayne on 028 3831 2400 or Clare on 028 3831 6813.
Disability Champions (from left) Clare Weir, Councillor Mrs Meta Crozier and Jayne Murphy.
