"I Have Special Needs: A Job"

 
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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” was launched by The Down's Syndrome Association.

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.

"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”, explained Paul Noble, the face behind the campaign. His 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 (DSA), 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.

REACARE.de; Source: Down's Syndrome Association

- To read the text of this booklet, go to: www.downs-syndrome.org.uk/DSA_detCampaign.aspx?cam=12

( Source: REHACARE.de )