A TRAINING scheme for disabled people looking to start their own business is being launched today by disability charity Leonard Cheshire in partnership with Barclays. The Ready to Start initiative aims to help 600 people across the country start their own business. The scheme is currently looking for people in the Middlesbrough and Teesside area who are interested in receiving business plan support and training. Vanessa Marshall, Middlesbrough co-ordinator, said: “I’d like to encourage local disabled people who are would-be entrepreneurs to get in touch. “Leonard Cheshire is experienced in providing support, training and employment advice to disabled people.” Successful applicants will also be linked with a Barclays “buddy” who can offer advice. Stella McRae, Barclays community relations officer, said: “By linking our staff’s business training and expertise with Leonard Cheshire, we have an excellent opportunity to help the successful candidates realise their goal of starting and maintaining a successful business.” Anyone interested in finding out more can contact Vanessa Marshall on 0114-2847148 or email Vanessa. marshall@lc-uk. org

TAG: disability and society, world disability news

FOUR “exceptional” disabled young people from Harrogate had a brush with Royalty when they were presented with their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at St James’ Palace, in the presence of The Duke of Edinburgh last month.

Richard Armitage, Danny Fryer, Gavin Potter, all 25, and Oliver Griffiths, 23, each had to work their way through a diverse range of five activities for a period of at least 18 months.

They volunteered in their local community, took up a new skill, learnt scuba diving for the physical activity section, spent a week away from home working with other young people on a special project, and even completed a four-day expedition across wild country in Scotland.

Speaking about completing his Gold Award, Oliver Griffiths said: “Taking part in the award has been one of my greatest achievements; it has enabled me to make some great friends, and to learn a whole range of different skills which have been instrumental in me gaining a job and moving into my own flat,” “I would recommend every young person to take part in the award, as you learn skills for life.

“Going to St James’ Palace was one of the best days that I have ever had and was a great way to celebrate achieving such a brilliant award”.

The four Gold Award holders all took part in their award at Harrogate Open Award Centre.

Sue Emmerson, Regional Operations Manager for the North East, said: “Completing a Gold Award requires a strong sense of commitment, dedication and effort from any participant, so the achievements of these four young men is truly outstanding. The challenges overcome by these participants proves that the award really is a programme for any young person regardless of circumstances or abilities.”

TAG: world disability news