In memory of Dean Lowe, the Jersey Employment Trust is setting up a JET Ambassadors programme.
On his untimely and tragic passing in 2023, Dean Lowe was described as JET’s greatest ambassador. Over 17 years, in his roles an Employment Co-ordinator and latterly Employment Engagement Manager, he worked tirelessly to champion the rights of Islanders who have a disability or long-term health condition.
More than anything, he wanted JET to be a household name, because it would make conversations with employers easier, open more doors, and ultimately be of benefit to our clients, many of whom continue to face barriers and stigma in the workplace.
Anyone can be an Ambassador for the charity, including employers, clients, former clients, and representatives of agencies we work with. Above all, Ambassadors will be passionate about what we do, about diversity and inclusion, and breaking down barriers in society.
JET executive officer Penny Shurmer said: “While the Jersey Employment Trust has made significant strides in supporting disabled individuals for over 20 years, there is still a pressing need for broader societal changes to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, has equal access to meaningful work opportunities. Advocacy, policy reforms, and sustained efforts from both the government and private sectors are essential to create a truly inclusive society.
“What we are saying is, let JET be your first port of call for any vacancy. When you are recruiting, call us first to see if we have clients who have the skills you need. We might not always be able to help – our clients change every week – but keep JET at the forefront of your mind for work experience and job opportunities.”
The first JET Ambassadors represent a broad cross-section of industries, including employers in hospitality and banking, HR representatives, a JET client, and close friends of Dean. They are Kenan Osborne, Kevin Lacey, Ana Cengic, Claire Reynard, Sue Gill, Hayley Routier, Kiley Henley, Tony Greed and Antonia Rubio.
Kenan Osborne, director of Magellan Consultancy, said: “I am honoured to have been invited to serve as a JET Ambassador. JET’s work goes beyond supporting their clients. They actively partner with Jersey employers to provide expert advice on recruitment and job retention, fostering inclusive workplaces that are essential to the fabric of our island community, a cause I am deeply passionate about.
“The impact of JET is both profound and far-reaching. As a parent of a son with autism, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative difference JET makes in the lives of neurodivergent individuals and their families. Their encouragement and opportunities are truly life-changing, promoting understanding, education, and inclusion in our society.
“I am proud to stand alongside JET in their mission and vision, and I look forward to contributing to their invaluable work.’
Mrs Shurmer added: “It is everyone’s responsibility to bring change which recognises and supports diversity. Diversity and inclusion in terms of disability needs to be embedded in everyone’s recruitment strategy. Too often our relationships rely on key individuals who share our vision, but the trail can go cold when that person moves from their role. If it is embedded in a company’s recruitment strategy and ethos, we will start shifting perspectives, one workplace at a time.
“We need to commit to working together to create a world where every person is recognised for their ability and has a chance to thrive in the workplace and contribute to society. We believe an Ambassadors programme will go a long way to achieving that.
“We will still be talking about Dean in 20 years’ time. We miss him every day. Dean’s legacy will be to create long-term change in the employment landscape of the future and shift perspectives to build truly diverse and inclusive workplaces.”
Pictured: Dean Lowe worked tirelessly to champion the rights of disabled people in the workplace. He is pictured at NatWest International with Sue Gill, who will be one of JET’s first Ambassadors
