West London Business member the University of West London (UWL) welcomed Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh on Monday 7 September, as businesses, community organisations and charities gathered to launch the Ealing SEND Partnership Charter and unveil a plaque marking its establishment.
The Charter was established by Ealing Council, UWL, West London Business, West London Chambers of Commerce, Ealing Business Club and the Ealing SEND Network to address the low employment rate among people with learning disabilities in Ealing, which stands at just 2.2% compared with a London average of 7%. It encourages employers to create more work experience, supported internships, apprenticeships and paid employment for young people with special educational needs and disabilities.
During the visit, The Duchess heard directly from young people with SEND, employers and local organisations about the barriers to employment and how the right support helps people develop their skills and build successful careers. She watched a boccia match involving UWL and PACE Charitable Trust, which enables people with disabilities to take part in sport and leisure, followed by a signed dance performance from IMPACT Theatre, a user-led charity that builds communication and self-confidence through the creative arts. The formal launch included a film and discussion exploring SEND experiences in the workplace.
Professor Peter John CBE, Vice-Chancellor and President of UWL, said: “Every young person, regardless of need or background, should have the opportunity to develop skills, contribute to their community and access meaningful employment. UWL is proud to be a founding member of the Ealing SEND Partnership Charter. By working together, we can help talented young people with SEND to thrive, progress and contribute to Ealing’s future workforce.”
Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh, addressing the audience, said: “Thank you to Ealing and everyone in this Borough for doing what you are doing for these young people. You’re giving people chances and it’s making a world of difference to them, to their outlooks and to their families.”
Andrew Dakers, CEO West London Business, said: “Too many SEND young people are locked out of the workplace — not by ability, but by never being offered a chance. And every business that never meets them loses something too. The first step can be small. A conversation. A work experience placement. An apprenticeship. A part-time role. Or simply reshaping a job around someone who could do it brilliantly. West London’s business groups have come together behind this Charter as it binds our members and supporters to that first step forwards in making things better.”
UWL’s Supported Internship Programme has already helped young people build skills and confidence through workplace placements, with graduates progressing into paid employment at organisations including Equans, Mencap and Next. Organisations signing the Charter can work with the Ealing SEND Network to identify suitable opportunities, match young people with roles and access continuing advice and job coaching. The Duchess closed the event by unveiling a plaque marking the launch alongside the opening of UWL’s new St Mary’s Road reception and the completion of the University’s campus transformation programme.
