Mid Sussex’s MP was speaking today (Friday March 25th) at the opening of new offices for Thriiver, a Cuckfield, West Sussex-based company that supports people with disabilities. Mims Davies MP saw demonstrations of assistive technology and coaching sessions to assist those who are disabled, neurodiverse or have mental health issues.
The Minister for Employment, Mims Davies MP, commented:
“I was delighted to visit Thriiver today to see the invaluable work they are doing to support local disabled people searching for jobs, and helping them with accessibility whilst they are in employment. The UK government has provided over £400 billion to support the economy including funding for DWP programmes like Kickstart, which has helped over 152,000 young people into employment, and Restart which helps break down employment barriers that could prevent people finding work. We want everyone who can work to find a job, progress in work and thrive in the labour market and it is organisations like Thriiver who are helping to make a crucial difference to people’s lives.”
Thriiver, formerly known as Hands Free Computing, provides assistive software technology to help people with reading, writing and organising their working day. As well as training people how to use the systems, Thriiver also coaches firms in techniques to help employees make the best of themselves.
Thriiver Chief Executive Lawrence Howard said:
“There is a forgotten army of excluded workers who have a lot to contribute to our country, especially at a time of labour shortages. With the right help to boost their skills and confidence, they can prosper.”
Thriiver works with employees and their managers to find practical strategies to improve an individual’s confidence, communication skills, concentration and ability to cope with stress.
“We are dismantling the barriers and attitudes which hold people back so they can fulfil their personal potential in a fully inclusive society,” said Howard.
As Employment Minister at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), Mims Davies MP is responsible for a number of programmes to support people into work. “We are pleased to be involved in the DWP’s Restart and Kickstart programmes that support those who are out of work and those who are just starting their working lives,” Howard added.
He continues:
“We have been supporting people with disabilities with technology for 25 years. Now we are using our expertise to offer a much wider range of services. Disabled people are real problem solvers – they have to be to overcome the barriers they face. Not only are they more loyal and less likely to take sick leave, but, with the right support, every bit as capable as any other employee.”
