Who is USEL?
USEL was established in 1962 to fulfil an act of Parliament to provide supported paid employment for disabled people and in 1980 the Company expanded through the acquisition of the Workshops for the Blind (The Belfast Association for the Employment of the Industrious Blind) to become the largest employer of disabled people within Northern Ireland. They believe that everyone, regardless of ability or background, deserves the opportunity to thrive in meaningful employment. Through their innovative programs and strong partnerships with businesses across Northern Ireland, USEL has become a powerhouse of positive change.
What They Stand For
At its core, USEL stands for empowerment, opportunity, and inclusion. Their approach is multi-faceted, offering tailored support, skills development, and direct employment opportunities in industries ranging from manufacturing to recycling and beyond. They don’t just help people find jobs; they help them build careers, confidence, and independence.
Empower Programme – Making a Real Impact
A shining example of USEL’s dedication to changing lives is their Empower Programme. Over the past 18 months, this initiative has helped over 350 individuals with health conditions or disabilities secure employment. That’s not just a statistic – that’s 350 people who now have financial independence, a sense of purpose, and the confidence to build a brighter future. The Empower Programme provides personalised support, skills training, and job placement services, ensuring that each participant is set up for long-term success.
Why It Matters
Finding meaningful employment can be challenging for anyone, but for individuals with disabilities or health conditions, the barriers can seem insurmountable. That’s where USEL comes in. Their work doesn’t just benefit individuals; it strengthens communities and enriches workplaces by fostering inclusivity and diversity. Employers who partner with USEL aren’t just hiring staff – they’re investing in talent, resilience, and innovation.
Graham’s story
Graham’s story began when he was unemployed and looking to improve his reading skills which he struggled with due to his learning disability. Graham was introduced to the USEL’s Empower program, aimed at helping individuals with disabilities get the support needed to prepare for employment. This program became a turning point for Graham, helping him build confidence and offering him the tools to thrive.
Through USEL’s support, Graham secured a job with the Western Health & Social Services Trust as a cleaner at Gransha Hospital. He also joined the USEL’s Workable NI program, which provided ongoing guidance and support as he settled into his new role.
Graham embraced the training opportunities provided by USEL, including learning about workplace policies, procedures, COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health), and health and safety protocols. Despite facing initial challenges and a lack of confidence, Graham’s growth over the past few months has been remarkable.
Today, Graham is thriving in his role. His management team describes him as an exceptional asset, noting his positive attitude, dedication, and infectious smile. They’ve even shared that “he has become part of the family” a testament to how much he is valued by colleagues and staff alike.
