No matter who you are, everyone deserves to enjoy motivational and meaningful opportunities.
B-Leaf Awen is a work-centred initiative for adults with learning disabilities, based right on my doorstep in the grounds of Bryngarw House Country Park.
It was a privilege to have a behind the scenes tour of the nursery and garden centre. Both provide an extensive training programme in horticulture and grounds maintenance for the adults who attend.
It was a pleasure to meet the enthusiastic and skilled trainees and dedicated staff, who make for an impressive set-up in a happy, welcoming and aesthetically beautiful environment.
Of the many positive attributes this invaluable initiative provides, is the confidence it instils into those who work at B-Leaf. It is clear for all to see and must be a significant boon to their well-being.
Everyone can contribute to our society and places of work. Programmes such as B-Leaf provide the belief of being able to enjoy the benefits employment can bring those adults in our community with learning difficulties. Not surprisingly, they are the same advantages for all of us.
* 32% of people with the lowest support needs have a paid job
* 9% of those with medium support needs have a paid job
* Fewer than 5% of those with the highest support needs have a paid job
These figures need to be improved upon, if we are to be a fully inclusive society. Enterprises such as B-Leaf are paving the way for this magnificent goal to become a reality.
The purpose of the visit was to see the impressive initiative and explore with South Wales Police colleagues possible opportunities for joint working and collaboration. Watch this space. Bridgend Town Council Bridgend County Borough Council Cllr. Jane Gebbie, Deputy Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council.