Laltex Leading by Example on Inclusive Employment Practices

Laltex Group is reinforcing its commitment to inclusive employment through its long-standing partnership with Seashell Trust, a specialist education and support organisation for young people with complex disabilities.

For more than 20 years, Laltex has supported Seashell Trust. Over the last seven years, that relationship has developed into a supported employment partnership, providing meaningful, paid roles within the Laltex workplace.

As part of this ongoing collaboration, representatives from Seashell Trust recently visited Laltex to deliver a disability awareness workshop for team members. The session focused on breaking down barriers, increasing understanding of supported employment, and building confidence among colleagues who may feel unsure about working alongside someone with additional needs.

Laltex currently employs three Seashell students on a permanent basis and has one student undertaking a work experience placement. Robert, the first Seashell student to gain paid employment through the partnership, has now been a valued member of the Laltex team for seven years. His journey demonstrates the long-term impact that supported employment can have when the right structures and support are in place.

Data shared during the workshop highlighted the broader importance of employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Office for National Statistics data indicates that adults with disabilities who are in paid work can have life expectancy outcomes of up to 20 years higher than those who are not employed. Despite this, nationally only 4.8% of young people leaving education with an Education, Health and Care Plan moved into paid employment last year.

Seashell’s outcomes demonstrate what can be achieved through partnership working. Last year, 14% of Seashell leavers secured paid employment, with the figure reaching 25% the previous year. These results reflect the impact of collaboration between educators, specialist teams, and employers who are willing to create inclusive opportunities.

Nicola Brown, Employer Engagement Lead at Seashell Trust, commented:

“As Employer Engagement Lead, I see every day how inclusive employment transforms businesses, communities, and families. When organisations open their doors and truly embrace inclusion, the impact is extraordinary. Laltex is a shining example of what is possible when this happens. With determination, opportunity, and the right support, our students show time and again that anything is possible.”

Laltex believes that disability awareness in the workplace is centred on understanding, empathy, and removing unnecessary barriers. Supported employment not only creates positive outcomes for individuals and families, but also strengthens workplace culture and engagement.

By sharing its experience, Laltex hopes to encourage other businesses within the promotional merchandise industry to explore how supported employment could work within their own organisations.