Guernsey Employment Trust has announced that it has won the Small Supported Employment Award at the British Association of Supported Employment annual conference.
This prestigious recognition highlights Guernsey Employment Trust’s (GET) efforts in creating inclusive employment opportunities for disabled and neurodiverse individuals in Guernsey.
British Association of Supported Employment (BASE), a leading advocate for specialist employment support, celebrates exceptional work in the field through its annual awards. GET, competing in three categories, won one and was shortlisted for another, marking a significant achievement for its team and the local community.
Celebrating the Small Supported Employment Award
This award acknowledges small teams that achieve big impact with limited resources.
GET’s 15-member team excels at fostering inclusion and diversity in workplaces. Competing against Bridge Creative and Salford Supported Employment, GET impressed the judges with its innovative approach, securing a unanimous win.
GET CEO Nikki Ioannou-Droushiotis said: “The award is a true validation of the team’ hard work, collaboration, respect and appreciation for one another. It is testament to our dedication to improving the lives of the disabled community in Guernsey.”
Over the years, GET has been a driving force behind inclusive recruitment, even before Guernsey introduced the Prevention of Discrimination Ordinance in 2023. Initiatives like the Employers’ Disability Charter and workplace training programs have paved the way for businesses to embrace diversity.
Since transitioning to the third sector a decade ago, GET has supported more individuals and achieved a 76% job retention rate. In 2023, its social value was estimated at £3.6 million, highlighting its impact on the community.
Other award highlights
- Jurgen Donaldson Disrupter Award: Employment Development Manager Elaine Strappini was shortlisted for her efforts in driving disability inclusion. Her initiatives led 72 employers to sign the Disability Charter and actively support disabled applicants. Mrs Ioannou-Droushiotis (CEO) said: “GET created the Employers’ Disability Charter in 2017, but it wasn’t until Mrs. Strappini joined the team in 2018 that the momentum for positive change in disability inclusion in Guernsey occurred.”
- Supported Employment Practitioner Award: Although not shortlisted, Employment Support Officer Rick Robinson was recognized for securing 89 paid job placements over five years, showcasing his unwavering commitment to job seekers. Mrs. Ioannou-Droushiotis commented: “Rick is deserving of this award because of the impact he has had on the lives of our disabled job seekers. Beyond the numbers, he demonstrates on a daily basis his belief in his clients, going above and beyond. His go-get-it attitude epitomises supported employment, focusing on his clients’ abilities.”
Pictured: Left to right – Alexandria Martinson, Elaine Strappini, Claire Smith and Rebecca Mauger
