'It makes you feel more welcome. I didn’t have that in previous jobs'

Businesses in East Cork which give employment to people with intellectual disabilities — an initiative that has brought many rewards to both workers and employees — were recently honoured at an event in Midleton

Sun, 26 Apr, 2026 - 19:30

Sarah Horgan

Finding your dream job can be challenging at the best of times without having to tackle stigma and rejection at every turn.

A group of people living with intellectual disabilities have praised their employers for taking a chance on them when others would not.

Plaques were presented and tributes paid to a total of 24 businesses in the East Cork area whose staff include members of East Cork Hubs — an organisation under the umbrella of Horizons (formerly Cope Foundation).

The day centre supports people with intellectual disabilities and/or autism, with a focus on preparing and supporting them to access employment.

A number of businesses and employers were recognised for their work at an event which took place at Midleton Distillery.

Helen Fleming, centre, with Therese Savage and Siobhan Flanagan from Savagekids @ Hydes Midleton, where Helen works.

Therese Savage, who invited Helen Fleming from Youghal to come and work with them two years ago, said their partnership with Horizons has been beneficial for both parties.

At 34 years old, Helen’s job with Savagekids @ Hydes Midleton was her first introduction to the professional world.

“Knowing that this is Helen’s first job is very special to us. It means so much to have her working with us,” Therese said.

“The only way I can describe her is like a little drop of sunshine. She is the most empathetic person you can meet. She can sense when you need a hug because that’s just the kind of person she is.

Customers love the service she gives and many are disappointed if she is off when they come in.

"We are glad the experience has been so positive for Helen. Her family have come in and made a point of saying how remarkable it is for them to see how well she’s doing in the job. ”

Siobhan Flanagan, who works with Helen at the clothes store, said the experience has had a huge impact on Helen’s confidence.

“We can see a huge change in Helen from when she first came to us. She knows that when a box comes in that it is to be opened and merchandising needs to be done.

"We also love the chat with her. Helen particularly loves talking about what happened in Fair City the night before.”

Aaron Daly, who has a job in Gilead, at the awards.

Meanwhile, Aaron Daly was proud to present a plaque to a representative from Gilead Science, who he has been working with for more than a years.

He explained: “One of my jobs includes checking the gowns and seeing if they need to be restocked. But the best part for me is coming in and having people say, 'Hello Aaron, how are you?'

"It makes you feel more welcome. I didn’t have that in previous jobs.

"Gilead is very family orientated. Everyone knows everyone and it has opened up my confidence in a lot of ways.

"When I get paid I’m able to do the things that I enjoy like going to cafes and meeting with different people.

"It’s also made me very independent. Before this, I relied on people a lot more but I don’t have to do that now.”

Vicki Kelly, SECAD, Lorraine Egan, chief executive of Horizons, and Dónal Óg Cusack, who spoke at the event.

Cork hurling legend turned pundit Dónal Óg Cusack made a surprise appearance at the event, with a heartfelt speech about the impact of those being recognised.

He told the crowd: “There is a difference between running a business and leading something that changes people’s lives, which is what many people here do quietly and consistently and without fuss, maybe when it took a bit more patience and that’s not easy.

"They have taken on people even when it wasn’t the easiest decision. It’s a reality for all of us in business today that business is busy and there is pressure. There are things that have to be done.

Still in the middle of all that you have made space for someone that matters. I think that sometimes that gets underestimated, especially in the country that we are living in today. It builds confidence and confidence is powerful.

"Once someone starts to believe in themselves you see that spread into how they carry themselves, into how they speak. That doesn’t stay with the individual. It impacts families and homes. That all started with a decision you made.”

Jody Smith from Botanic Home and Garden Centre heaped praised on his employee Niamh Connor, who he says has improved staff morale considerably.

“Everyone knows when she is coming in. Even when things don’t go according to plan, there is no stress with her. Having her as part of the team really takes the edge off.”

Jack Ryan from Midleton Distillery, who is also a members of Horizons, was working during the event but still found time to speak with the Irish Examiner.

“I used to work here for three hours but now I have an extra hour. I love telling the customers all about the different whiskeys. It has made me so much more confident.”

Employers recognised at the event in Midleton Distillery