The NOW Group, an award-winning social enterprise supporting individuals with learning disabilities and autism into sustainable employment, celebrated the achievements of over 200 participants during its recent graduation ceremony alongside valued strategic partners.
Over the years, the NOW Group has attained a number of strategic partners – leading businesses across Ireland that strongly value inclusion and diversity as JAM card partners, support the Group in delivering jobs with a future, sponsorship, and incorporating Loaf catering and pottery into their supply chains. All this enables the NOW Group to expand its impact for people with autism and learning difficulties.
Diane Hill, Director of Business & Organisational Development at the NOW Group comments: “The time is right for social enterprises and private sector businesses to work together to deliver real social value. Inclusion and diversity are about much more than your business being welcoming to all. They are about the real actions you take to make changes and proactively address the barriers faced by both your employees and your customers.
“Working with the NOW Group provides a platform to help your business make a positive, measurable impact and deliver social value in your community. With the help of our strategic partners, in 2022 alone, we supported over 1,500 participants into training and employment opportunities with 180 participants securing paid employment.
Pictured at the graduation ceremony in Belfast City Hall are, back row, from left, Sean Hanna, NOW Group; Gary Kirk, M&S; Mark Osmer, NOW Group Board member and Barry Taylor, Terex.
Front row, from left are, Warren Haley, Henderson Group; Diane Hill, NOW Group; Nicola Donaldson, M1 Confectioners; Ashleigh Best, Energia; Adele Lyle, Lidl and Neal Col, Terex.
For more information on the NOW Group’s services, visit: www.nowgroup.org.