Protected: St Michaels House and Green Acres

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  When the two lads arrive for their morning shift, the laughter comes with them. Working at Airfield over the last few years means uniforms, badges, routine and of course, the walkie talkies.
  
  Coming from St Michael’s House and from Green Acres, young adults with learning disabilities have an opportunity to shadow and work in a flexible, secure environment with the team at Airfield Estate.
  
  John O’Toole, Airfield’s COO talks about the special relationship Airfield has had with St Michaels House participants over the last 14 years. For them, being inclusive and welcoming is central to their mission and this extends to the whole organisation. He says of how Airfield’s employees are empowered by the positive part they play in inclusive employment and shadowing “you are not just here for a job; you are here for the aim.”
  
  Airfield chooses an inclusive approach to employment, one where everyone is an equally valued member of staff; paid or volunteer, full or part-time. Airfield makes a community for all its employees.
  
  Vulnerable or additional needs staff at Airfield are catered for with opportunities for work across many departments. The emphasis is to create safe workspaces with flexible working opportunities in a variety of settings, from office to farm, to kitchens.
  
  Giving vulnerable young people an opportunity to try their strengths, learn new skills and reach their potential in real situations, having colleagues and business relying on their input gives unique and lasting benefits.
  
  With small teams, the volunteer staff shadow Airfield staff members one to one. The emphasis is on finding work that facilitates the skills and talents of the participants; where they can grow and learn. Working throughout the year in multiple departments gives participants the opportunity to try out different working environments and to get to know new work colleagues well.
  
  The opportunities to get outside and work in the fresh air, to learn how to not just do a job, but to be useful to the business, to the customers and to their colleagues is great for confidence building and job satisfaction.
  
  Those who come to work from St Michaels House, and from Green Acres Community bring so much to Airfield, their eagerness to work and learn, to be part of the team and of course lots of chat and laughter.
  
  “We believe in having a positive impact on peoples’ lives.” John says, “they are one of us.”