1 February 2018

UK Athletics is set to continue its successful collaboration with the Hive College in Birmingham after linking up in 2017 to give young adults a chance to gain valuable work experience.

The Hive – who place young adults between the ages of 19-25 with non-behavioural disabilities with organisations for them to upskill towards permanent employment – started working with UK Athletics late last year as part of the Disability Confident Leader commitment, and this successful project continues in 2018.

UKA achieved the Disability Confident Leader level prior to the start of the World Para Athletics Championships London 2017 in recognition for work on disability for the championships and our internal policies and procedures.

Within the Governing Body, the Communications and Major Events teams welcomed a student from the college to work with them over a six week placement carrying out a number of roles to the benefit of both parties. The student completed his placement having gained confidence through office-based skills and enrichment opportunities.

The partnership continues into 2018 with UKA supporting another student in gaining important work experience at the organisation.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Lead at UK Athletics, Donna Fraser, commented:

“We are very proud of our commitment as a Disability Confident Leader and I am delighted to continue our work with the Hive College. Last year’s student found the placement incredibly useful; learning new skills and growing in confidence which is very encouraging for all involved.

“This is one of many initiatives we will be delivering throughout the year around disability. As we move towards a more diverse and inclusive organisation, this is a fantastic opportunity for us to work with The Hive and the remarkable students, who we are learning from too.”

Julie Pallister, Placements Co-ordinator at The Hive College, added:

“The students have found the experiences of work very rewarding. It will help them to determine what strengths and skills they have and what vocation they would like to progress in and it is because of the experiences offered by employers and organisations like UK Athletics that have led to 80 % of our students progressing into paid employment.”