Inclusive Employment Scheme
The QUB “Inclusive Employment Scheme” was launched by the then Minister for Employment and Learning Dr Stephen Farry on 29 May 2014.
The scheme is run in conjunction with NIUSE NI Union of Supported Employment. The University has hosted a number of individuals with a disability or long-term condition in various schools and directorates throughout Queen’s. The roles on offer have ranged from Technical, Clerical, Research and Operational positions such as Portering, Cleaning and Catering. Placements are part-time, unpaid and can last anywhere between 3 and 12 months. To date we have hosted just under 75 placements.
It is a great opportunity for those who have been unable to get work, or have had to leave work due to a disability, to develop skills and gain valuable work experience.
The Scheme has been identified as an example of best practice by the Department for Communities and the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland.
The 2023 launch of the sixth annual Inclusive Employment Scheme was attended by more than 50 representatives from over 15 support organisations, including external partners of the Scheme, and staff from Queen's placement host departments.
“…. a great example of partnership working between a government body, the local disability sector and a major employer, who in this instance, just happen to be one of our most prestigious education establishments … the staff at Queen’s, through the HR team and the respective schools throughout the University, have provided the opportunities and in-work support that will really enhance the employment prospects of many disabled people – and for that, we are all very grateful.” Terry Park
Head of Disability Employment Services, DfC
Queen’s staff have worked closely alongside organisations such as Disability Action, The Cedar Foundation, Ulster supported Employment Limited (USEL), Action Mental Health, Orchardville, The NOW group, Mencap and Stepping Stones who provide invaluable help and support throughout the process.
L-R QUB Queens Sport Host Cabrini Tsougranis, Richard Collis Inclusive Employment Scheme Placement, Sally Lynn QUB Diversity Inclusion & Wellbeing Unit and Support Worker Alan Horne Orchardville
L-R QUB School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work Host Co-Worker Margaret Mullany, Daniela Tatarkova Inclusive Employment Scheme Placement
Feedback from University staff, support workers and participants in the scheme has been very positive.
"I have been a participant in the Inclusive Employment Scheme and received a warm welcome and support from all staff in the Digital and Information Services Directorate Office at Queens. I have gained experience in dealing with telephone enquiries, have been able to develop my computer skills and have enjoyed feeling part of a team. It has been a very positive experience and has built my confidence in my ability to re-enter the workforce. Thank you so much." Elaine Hayes
Placement in Digital & Information Services
The pen picture allowed participants to sell themselves. Flexibility, good communication, and support from QUB. Leeann Green
Liz Palmer Cedar Foundation
An opportunity for students to get experience and widening my own horizons. Gabrielle Smyth
Queen’s Film Theatre
Taking part in the scheme enables participants to gain the experience and confidence they need to then go and gain paid employment. A small number of participants have secured employment with Queen’s after their placement ended by successfully applying and being appointed through externally advertised recruitment exercises. In some cases, the scheme has facilitated the work experience aspect of participants completing various college courses.
Placements, Support Workers and QUB Hosts and NIUSE representatives at the Inclusive Employment Scheme Social Event October 2023
My placement was satisfying and productive. Staff were helpful and friendly. Ánradh Creed
QUB Student and Campus Life/Accommodation Placement
“The application process was easy and straightforward. The departments really thought about the work that ties in with the placement’s skills and interest. A good safe place that helped build confidence”. Julie Stuart
Support Worker Disability Action
“The level of support was well structured and flexible, help was available if needed” Sonia Erwin
Support Worker Action Mental Health
“The placement was a great asset to the team and communication was excellent with the scheme” Glenn Patterson
Host QUB Union Shop
Meet two of the Inclusive Employment Scheme placements in 2023/2024
For further insight into the Inclusive Employment Scheme, please click on the testimonies provided by previous scheme participants Jamie Davison and Suzie Leech, as well as the staff news article about Peter McCullough.
More Information / Get Involved
Contact Leeann Matchett
Information for QUB Hosts
Staff Intranet