New training programme helps young adults with additional needs on path to employment

Inishowen is welcoming a new initiative this month, as My Slí, a training and pre-employment programme for young adults with additional needs, begins its first six-week block.

The programme, run by local social enterprise Spraoi agus Spórt, is part of the wider Slí initiative, which supports adults with additional needs into work, training, and volunteering opportunities.

The first block focuses on retail, giving participants hands-on experience within Spraoi’s Síoraí retail shops, workplace visits to local retail employers, and skills development.

Alongside practical work skills, participants take part in social and creative activities, including baking, music, and sport, designed to build confidence, teamwork, and community connections.

Delivered one day per week over six weeks, the programme helps participants develop the skills and experience that bring them closer to employment opportunities and can ultimately help them to find work.

Mary Green, personal progression plan officer, explains: “My Slí is all about supporting each person’s journey towards work. Over six weeks, participants gain practical experience, explore different job roles, and build confidence in the kind of communication and real-life skills that they need for the workplace.”

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The new programme responds to a clear local and national need, as Ireland ranks among the lowest in the EU for disability employment, with only 32.6 per cent of working-age adults with disabilities employed – almost 20pc below the EU average of 51.3pc.

In Donegal, that figure is even lower, with only 28.9pc of people with a disability in paid employment.

“My Slí provides practical opportunities and support so participants can see what working life is like, gain relevant skills, and feel ready to move closer to employment,” adds Mary.

Further modules of My Slí will focus on careers in Horticulture, Creative Industries and Manufacturing. The programme is open to young adults aged 16 and over in the Inishowen area who may need extra support in accessing work.

Interested participants, families, and referring organisations can contact the My Slí team at Spraoi agus Spórt for more information.

To learn more, or to sign up for the programme, visit: www.spraoiagussport.ie/sli-workability, call 085 8601834 or email sli@spraoiagussport.ie