A symbol of hope

Paint handprints were used to launch a new initiative encouraging diversity, inclusion and equality in the workplace this week.

The Hands of Hope initiative was launched by An Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Joe Kavanagh.

The project is a joint effort from Trigon Hotels and Cope Foundation’s Ability@Work programme whose team members came together on Harley Street recently to place their handprints on a wall to symbolise the uniting of communities.

They are hoping that as people pass the wall on Harley Street they will be reminded of how resilient and courageous they have been over the past year and will continue to be hopeful for the future.

Trigon Hotels has been running a partnership with Cope Foundation and its Ability@Work programme over the past year.

Ability@Work is a Cope Foundation programme that provides work preparation training and employment opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities or autism.

It promotes inclusive workplaces by encouraging Cork employers to open their doors and include everyone.

Speaking after the launch, An Taoiseach Micheál Martin said it was wonderful to see these two organisations working together to make a difference after such a tough year.

An Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “This is a fantastic initiative and a positive symbol of hope for the city. Trigon Hotels’ partnership with Cope Foundation and Ability@work Cork is so important in providing people with intellectual disabilities and autism valuable life skills and employment opportunities.”

Emer Crowley works with Trigon Hotels and Emer and Craig Kelly both gained employment through the Ability@Work programme.

Emer said: “Having a job has made my life better. I am a happier person because I am just like everyone else.”

Emer added: “The staff in the hotel really make me feel part of the team. Ability@Work helped me get this job. My job coach helped me to settle in and learn all the tasks. My family are really proud of me.”

Craig said: “It is important that everyone has equal rights in employment. People with different abilities should not be discriminated against when they want to work.”

Craig added: “Programmes like Ability@Work are essential for people like me to get a job.”

Aaron Mansworth, Managing Director of Trigon Hotels, said he is proud of the collaboration and is looking forward to its future.

“Two years ago, Trigon Hotels embarked on a journey to ensure employment opportunities were accessible to all regardless of different abilities.

“The partnership shares a vision for a more inclusive Cork and will continue to fund exciting projects that support people to live life their way and continue to support a more inclusive workplace,” he said.

The paint for the project was sponsored by Pat McDonnell Paints with Cork artist Kevin O’Brien, who is co-founder of Mad About Cork, doing the design and paint work.

Kathleen Linehan, Strategic Director of HR at Trigon Hotels said: “We have worked hard over the past year to develop strategies to attract and retain diverse new talent.”

Ms Linehan continued: “The idea for the Hands of Hope initiative was based around Trigon Hotels looking forward to our future together featuring three words - Hope, resilience and courage.

“These three words highlight inclusivity and diversity in our hotels and the increasing need to make diversity, inclusion and equity in the workplace a priority.”

In January of this year, Trigon Hotels announced it was planning to raise funds for the one charity and officially partnered with Cope Foundation.