"I HAVE SPECIAL NEEDS: A JOB"
18/12/2006
The Down’s Syndrome Association (DSA) has launched a high impact advertising campaign featuring a close-up of the face of a man with Down’s syndrome and the words: “I Have Special Needs: A Job”.
The poster, the work of new creative agency Hurrell and Dawson, is featured on the elevated section of the M4. It is to be the springboard for a nationwide campaign to raise awareness of how few people with Down’s syndrome are in paid employment. Of a potential workforce of 15,000 adults with Down’s syndrome in the UK, only 16% will ever have the chance to prove that they are capable of contributing successfully to the nation’s economy.
Paul Noble, the face behind the campaign, said:
“At the moment I do work experience in an office one day a week. I would like a paid job so that I can earn my own money and be a bit more independent.”
Paul’s face will also be seen in tube stations and on bus shelters across London in the following weeks.
Carol Boys, Chief Executive of the Down’s Syndrome Association, said:
“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to raise awareness in such a high-profile way. Most employers don’t realise what many adults with Down’s syndrome can be capable of, and what they can add to a workplace. People with Down’s syndrome are often keen, reliable workers who are ready to start at short notice. Employers who already have a staff member with Down’s syndrome often report improved staff morale as well as being able to promote a positive corporate image. We hope that our work will help to level the playing field for people with the condition when it comes to being taken seriously as employees.”
To support their campaign the DSA is producing a booklet for employers which will highlight the benefits of employing people with Down’s syndrome, and give advice about the next steps to take. To read the text of this booklet, go to
ENDS
For further information, please contact Jessica ffield, Communications Officer at the DSA, on / or email
NOTES TO EDITORS:
There are 60,000 people with Down’s syndrome living in the UK
Today, people with the condition can look forward to a life expectancy of 60 years plus
People with Down’s syndrome are not ill and do not suffer from the condition
The DSA is a national charity which provides information and support for people with Down’s syndrome, their families, carers and interested professionals. It also seeks to improve knowledge and understanding and champion the rights of people with the condition
The DSA has an annual operating need of £1.9 million. It relies almost entirely on voluntary donations