We are delighted to launch our innovative new national employment programme for adults with Down syndrome, an initiative we’ve developed in collaboration with our partner ALFAPARF Milano Ireland. Our ‘Beauty in all its Forms’ programme gives adults with Down syndrome the opportunity to train as hairdressing assistants with a view to securing long-term employment.

 

 

Following the programme’s international success, we piloted it in Ireland in early 2017 with six of our members and had an almost 70% success rate of people securing employment following training.

 

“The training was great. I learned lots, how to fold towels, cleaning and washing hair. Getting a job in Lloyds made me happy and confident.” John Mulligan, Waterford

 

 

One of our key goals is to provide our members with a high degree of independence in adulthood. We are making real progress in developing our adult education programmes and establishing partnerships with companies such as ALFAPARF Milano.

 

“I have become more confident in talking to people, greeting and looking after the clients. I have become much more aware of what it means to be in the workplace – arriving on time, dressing suitably and doing the best I can in the salon.”

 

 

Can I participate in Beauty in all its Forms?

We are currently running the first round of the programme with a further six candidates and plan to host a second round of the programme in the new year, so watch this space for further announcements and details for our members!

Are you an employer who would like to get involved?

Working alongside a person with Down syndrome often enriches the wider workforce and benefits a company in many diverse and unique ways.

As an employer, would you like to get involved in one of our training and employment programmes? You can get in contact with us at info@downsyndrome.ie. We would love to chat with you.

Can I find out more information on the programme?

Beauty in all its Forms General Booklet with background information on the programme, graduate feedback from the pilot programme and support information.

Read our full PRESS RELEASE here.