Ambassador programme created in Dean Lowe's memory

Jersey Employment Trust is creating a new 'Ambassadors' programme to get jobs for more Islanders who have a disability or long-term health condition.

The charity is naming Ambassadors, who will help promote inclusive workplaces, and ensure that the workforce represented by JET is not overlooked. 

The scheme has been established in memory of Dean Lowe who was killed a hit and run in Jersey in 2023, alongside his 11 year old son.

He worked for JET for more than 17 years and has been described as its 'greatest ambassador'  - working tirelessly to champion disability rights and equal opportunities.

JET says of Dean:

"More than anything, he wanted JET to be a household name, because it would make conversations with employers easier, open more doors, and ultimately be of benefit to our clients, many of whom continue to face barriers and stigma in the workplace."

JET Ambassadors can be employers, clients, former clients, and representatives of the agencies they work with.  They are being drawn from a range of industries to advocate for job opportunities for the charity's clients.

JET client David Harburn (centre) landed his ‘gold job' with FNHC after an internship last year (Credit: JET)

JET Executive Officer Penny Shurmer wants JET to be the first option for businesses with vacancies. She wants employers to make an early call to  JET to check if they have anyone with the appropriate skills:

"We need to commit to working together to create a world where every person is recognised for their ability and has a chance to thrive in the workplace and contribute to society.

"We believe an Ambassadors programme will go a long way to achieving that."

"Dean’s legacy will be to create long-term change in the employment landscape of the future and shift perspectives to build truly diverse and inclusive workplaces."

The first JET Ambassadors represent a broad cross-section of industries, including employers in hospitality and banking, HR representatives, a JET client, and close friends of Dean.

Kenan Osborne, director of Magellan Consultancy, is one of the first Ambassadors, and knows from experience the value of the work JET does:

"The impact of JET is both profound and far-reaching.

"As a parent of a son with autism, I have witnessed first-hand the transformative difference JET makes in the lives of neurodivergent individuals and their families.

"Their encouragement and opportunities are truly life-changing, promoting understanding, education, and inclusion in our society."

Those working with JET have employment coordinators who meet with them for regular catch-ups. (Credit: JET)

Ana Cengic, Associate Director in HR at Affinity Private Wealth, is also an Ambassador. She explained their role:

"We will go out to other employers who might not be aware of the work that JET does so that we can tell them about our experiences and how we've used them to demystify the process.

"It's an honour. I was able to meet Dean and get to know him and his work. JET have done such great things that a lot of companies are unaware of. 

"It's all about getting the word out and making sure other companies are aware of how they can use JET."