July 16, 2026

Causeway Hospital’s Corporate Support Services team has been recognised by Mencap for its outstanding commitment to workplace inclusion.

The team recently received the organisation’s prestigious Employer of the Month award, celebrating its commitment to creating a workplace where people with learning disabilities can thrive, develop their skills and achieve meaningful employment.

Reflecting on this success, Linda Saunders, the Northern Trust’s Corporate Support Services Domestic and Catering Manager, said: “Workplace inclusion means creating an environment where everyone feels respected, valued and able to be themselves.

“We celebrate diversity among our team and are committed to ensuring that all staff have equal opportunities to contribute, develop and succeed.

“Our team acts with kindness, respect and understanding, and we are committed to creating a positive workplace culture which reflects our Trust values and behaviours.”

Working alongside Mencap, the Trust has developed pictorial work schedules for colleagues with a learning disability to provide additional workplace support.

In addition, 40 domestic and catering staff at Causeway Hospital have completed the charity’s disability and inclusion training, which aims to improve understanding of learning disabilities, communication methods and how colleagues can offer effective support in the workplace.

Joanne McDonald, who has a learning disability herself and works with Mencap as a Disability Equality Officer, said awareness and understanding in the workplace is vitally important.

“Disability and inclusion training is so important because it helps people understand what a learning disability is. It challenges people’s thinking and helps ensure everyone is treated with dignity and respect,” she said.

“I would like to thank Causeway Hospital for ensuring that 40 domestic and catering staff completed their training. Together we can create a better, more inclusive NHS where colleagues feel confident supporting people with a learning disability in the workplace.”

One employee who has benefited from this supportive approach is Laura McCollum, who has worked at Causeway Hospital for the past seven years. Supported by Mencap in recent years, Laura began her career in the café and now works as a cleaner alongside her workplace buddy, Rosemary.

Through this friendship and ongoing support, Laura’s confidence has flourished and she takes great pride in her work.

Presenting the award, Jane Martin from Mencap said the recognition reflected the team’s ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive workplace where people with learning disabilities are supported to reach their full potential.

She said: “This award recognises the continued partnership between Mencap and Causeway Hospital’s Corporate Support Services team, and the positive difference this is making.

“They work collaboratively with us, communicate openly and show flexibility to ensure people are supported to achieve sustainable and fulfilling employment.

“Feedback from staff and service users has been extremely positive, highlighting the person-centred approach taken by the team and the real impact this has had on confidence, skills development and long-term outcomes.”