The Beckmead Trust South London Careers Hub and the South London No Wrong Door: Integration Hub hosted a fantastic event with Beckmead College where employees were invited to understand how they can work with our SEND pupils to positively shape their future workforce. 

Nationally, the number of pupils with SEND has increased by 27%, and nearly one in four working-age individuals are classified as disabled.

Business owners and employers were offered insights into this significant and growing segment of the workforce, and we were able to demonstrate how engaging with young people with disabilities can enhance their organisation's innovation, productivity, and culture.   

Councillor Patsy Cummings and Councillor Andy Stranack (on behalf of the Mayor of Croydon), provided an inspiring keynote address to share their thoughts on the importance of inclusivity, and the role that local government plays in supporting employers engaging with young people with disabilities.

We also boldly heard first hand from our current Work Experience students about how these opportunities have developed their confidence, mental health and soft skills.

I really appreciate the invite, which has helped me deal with my own mindset issues. I would love to engage with you guys and understand more so we can offer some work experience and possibly jobs in the future. 

- Managing Director at Earl & Calm Design & Build Ltd.

Overall, it was an inspiring event that provided major networking opportunities for employers, business owners, and community organisations dedicated to disability inclusion. They even got to enjoy a delightful brunch served and prepared by our very talented catering team and students from our catering courses! 

We had a great time hearing from Beckmead’s learners about the positive impact achieved from work experience. Hearing the learner’s journey and how much they have grown as a result of the placements was the icing on the cake for us!

- Barnardo's Children's services Manager

Further information

If you would like any further information about the event and how you could build a more inclusive workforce, please contact our Careers Lead, Gina Higgins at ghiggins7@beckmeadtrust.org.