On 8 December, we came together at Bryn Eury Café in Conwy for a very special event called Jobs and Joy. The day was organised by IMPACT to inform our work with Conwy Council, who want to be a more inclusive employer and provide people with learning disabilities paid employment opportunities. The day truly lived up to its name.
A total of 28 people with lived experience attended, bringing energy, honesty, humour and a wealth of insight into the room. From the moment people arrived, there was a real sense of warmth and excitement, helped, of course, by good food, friendly faces and a welcoming space.
Putting strengths first
One of the key activities of the day focused on helping people to develop their own Strengths Star. Rather than talking about barriers or labels, we centred the conversation on what people are good at and what they enjoy. For many attendees, this was a powerful moment and a chance to see their abilities recognised and celebrated.
Alongside this, we worked together to explore what helps and what gets in the way of work. Through creative, accessible activities and group discussions, people shared their experiences openly. These conversations gave valuable insight into the practical and emotional factors that can make employment feel achievable or, at times, difficult.
Joy, connection and inclusion
Jobs and Joy was not just about employment, it was about connection, confidence and having fun. There was laughter throughout the day, moments of reflection, and lots of encouragement between participants. The café setting, shared food and relaxed atmosphere helped everyone feel comfortable and included.
One comment from the day really captured its impact. As the workshop came to a close, one person told us:
“It’s been the best day I’ve had all year.”
That simple sentence says more than any evaluation form ever could.
Looking ahead
Now that people have got to know the Demonstrator team, we have invited people to small groups, where people with lived experience can sense check the developments we plan to make to Conwy Council’s recruitment process.
Events like Jobs and Joy remind us how important it is to create spaces where people with learning disabilities can be heard, valued and supported to explore opportunities, including paid employment, in a way that works for them. The insights shared on the day will help shape more inclusive employment pathways and ensure lived experience remains at the heart of future work with Conwy Council.
Thank you to everyone who attended, shared their stories, and made the day what it was full of jobs, joy, and possibility.