job shadow initiative 2009

The Job Shadow Initiative was launched in April 2007 at Leinster House, Dublin by An Taoiseach, Mr. Bertie Ahern. In addition, a briefing session was held which was supported by government ministers, state agencies and personalities from entertainment and sporting backgrounds.

What is the Job Shadow Initiative?
The Job Shadow Initiative is a nationwide campaign dedicated to giving people with disabilities a unique opportunity to “shadow” a workplace mentor as he or she goes through a normal day at work. The ultimate goal of the Job Shadow Initiative is to mobilise the employment of people with disabilities, while raising awareness of Supported Employment.


MESA’s Job Shadow Day – All about Employability.

MESA organised an outstanding Job Shadow Day on Wednesday, 22nd April, throughout the midlands. A wide range of dream jobs were incorporated ranging from: - admin roles, supermarkets, clerical, i.t. support, horticulture, maintenance, catering, printing, general operatives etc. Job Shadow gives people with disabilities an opportunity to “shadow” a workplace employee as they go through a normal day at work.

Participating in MESA’s Job Shadow Day a number of local employers found that they had the opportunity to gain greater understanding of different disabilities as well as realising that job seekers with disabilities are definitely worth consideration when recruiting. Speaking to the local provincial papers Tony Reilly, MESA Coordinator, said “it was also a great opportunity for job seekers with disabilities to learn about potential job opportunities and gain greater insight around job requirements and employer expectations.” Mr Reilly went on to say “the Job Shadow Day was supported by FAS, with the idea originating with ourselves here in MESA where we are keen to promote the potential contribution that job seekers with disabilities can make to the workplace”.

Football legend and MESA Job Shadow supporter, John Giles commented “This excellent service cannot work without employers being open to considering a person’s ability to do the job. Job Shadow will serve to highlight this and help address some of the concerns around employing a person with a disability”. John firmly believes “It’s all about employability”.

Tony Reilly finished by saying he would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who took part in MESA’s Job Shadow Day especially employers and job seekers with disabilities. He also acknowledged the continued support that MESA enjoys from current employers.

Further details on your local supported employment service and Job Shadow are available on this website.

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