Minister of Disability Issues visits Kilmarnock Enterprises

The Minister for Disability Issues and Social Development, Hon. Louise Upston, recently visited Christchurch-based ADE member organisation Kilmarnock Enterprises.

The Minister, accompanied by Christchurch-based National MPs Dr Vanessa Weenink and Hamish Campbell, visited Kilmarnock as part of a day connecting with disability support organisations across Ōtautahi Christchurch.

The Kilmarnock team was grateful for the opportunity to meet with the Minister and share the vision of their innovative Employment Pathway Programme. The programme, which shares several common aspects with programmes offered at other ADE member organisations, provides a supportive development pathway for people with intellectual disabilities, empowering them to build life and work skills, social connections, and self-determined lives.

The Minister was very supportive of Kilmarnock’s approach and commended their commitment to supporting employees ready to take on open employment opportunities outside Kilmarnock on their journey.

We’re pleased the Minister could visit Kilmarnock Enterprises during her trip to Christchurch and glad she endorsed Kilmarnock’s approach to supporting and empowering people with intellectual disabilities through dedicated employment, training, and development initiatives.