MFS is proud to be in partnership with WorkFit, the Down’s Syndrome Association’s employment programme which brings together employers and jobseekers who have Down’s syndrome.
The partnership began in August when Joshua Hoskins joined the National Parts & Accessories Centre (NPAC) Team at MFS’ brand-new flagship depot in Tamworth, in the Midlands.Joshua is 24 years old and this will be his first job following his studies at college. He is initially joining us for four hours per week and is being mentored by Darren Paddock and Phil Miles, but many members of the team in Tamworth are contributing towards Joshua’s workplace development.
WorkFit is a tailored service dedicated to training employers about the learning profile of people who have Down’s syndrome so that they can be supported in the workplace.
The national charity, which is the only organisation in the country focusing solely on all aspects of living successfully with Down’s syndrome, aims to find the right employment opportunities for people who have Down’s syndrome and ensure that they have the support they need to be successful in the workplace.
Down’s syndrome is caused by the presence of an extra chromosome in a baby’s cells. Around one in every 1,000 babies born in the UK will have Down’s syndrome and there are approximately 40,000 people in the UK with the condition.
People with Down’s syndrome have a learning disability which will affect their ability to learn, however it does not mean they cannot learn. WorkFit is designed to increase the opportunities for people with Down’s syndrome to access employment opportunities, and is not seen as an end destination but a stepping stone into a career pathway.
MFS is extremely excited to be helping Joshua take the first steps in his career and is looking forward to continuing to support and work with him.