Diversity makes a Difference
September 17, 2004

Diversity makes a difference - according to employees with a disability at Somerset County Council.

The sixth annual conference for employees with a disability takes place on Friday October 8 at Dillington House, near Ilminster, exploring the theme diversity.

The disability network group, the county council's forum for disability issues which organises the conference, hope this year's event will promote a diverse and vibrant workplace in which all employees feel valued and have the chance to realise their potential.

Somerset County Council's portfolio holder for care and safety Hazel Prior-Sankey said: "It is a chance for employees with a disability to enjoy discussing disability issues, networking with others and looking positively towards the future for employment of people with a disability.

"We have invited representatives from other employee network groups in order to improve relationships across the council. I hope these groups working together will encourage positive perception, career development and fair treatment for all."

The guest speaker is Andy Rickell, Director of Diversity and Corporate Planning at Scope, whose focus is people with cerebral palsy.

Andy, who has cerebral palsy himself, has pursued a fascinating career campaigning for disability rights.

Before joining scope he was chief-executive of the British Council for Disabled People and led the setting up of the UK Disabled People's Parliament.

Andy, a Gloucestershire County Councillor, has also recently written for the Guardian and was a guest on Radio four.

Disability Employee's Representative Roger Tyson said: "Many of the issues faced by employees with disabilities are the same as those experienced by members of other network groups and rather than see disabilities as a separate issue the networks need to work more closely to promote the good news about a diverse workforce."