Disabled Wallasey man goes back to work - thanks to Remploy
6th February 2008
Ron FavagerRon Favager, now 56, used to deliver the mail in Wallasey, a job he loved not least because it kept him very fit. However, following his accident that caused severe damage to his arm, he and his employer regretfully concluded he could no longer do the job. Ron retired on medical grounds, but quickly realised he missed the routine and sense of purpose that goes with having a job.
Ron applied for many positions, but despite increasingly regaining use of his arm, he felt his disability put off many potential employers. His advisor at Jobcentre Plus in Liscard referred Ron to Remploy, the UK’s leading provider of specialist employment services for people with disabilities and health conditions. Together, Ron and Remploy explored several training opportunities that led to him gaining skills in security and CCTV operations. Remploy also arranged for Ron to undergo standard checks to allow him to work with children. So, when the idea of being a school caretaker was proposed, Ron had all the training and clearances he needed. He applied for a vacancy at St George’s Primary School on St George’s Road, and was offered the job there and then!
“I needed to get back to work for so many reasons, not least of which was my own self-confidence which plummeted after my accident,” said Ron. “Having a job has also helped me regain even more use in my arm – my doctors agree that I’ve really come on leaps and bounds since I started working again.”
Ron’s duties are numerous, and include security of the school premises, undertaking repairs and helping with cleaning duties.
“It’s a broad-ranging job, which is why I enjoy it so much,” he said. “I’m grateful to all those who have helped me, but especially Remploy. Not only have they helped me get this job, they’ve also helped me regain belief in myself – and that’s more than money can buy.”
