Have you heard? Earlier this year, Birmingham became the UK’s first accredited Compassionate City!
Recognised for putting kindness and compassion at the heart of communities, Birmingham has gained this extraordinary recognition by bringing together all areas of the local community. Including Birmingham City Council, NHS, schools, cultural organisations, and employers, Birmingham has collectively provided support, space, togetherness and understanding to those experiencing the tragedy and hardship of grieving, living with a serious illness, and caregiving during the most difficult times.
What makes a Compassionate City?
As part of a worldwide movement, the purpose of the Compassionate City award is to build compassion as a major value of life across all sectors of civic society. Already acknowledged as a Healthy City, Birmingham stood out due to the inspiring way it uses its networks and influences by actively collaborating and co-operating with its citizens to develop and support social change around dying, death, loss, and care. A prime example being celebrated as part of this award includes annual events held by BrumYODO, which are focused on normalising issues of death, dying and loss.
Birmingham welcomes one and all
Councillor John Cotton, Cabinet Member for Social Inclusion, Community Safety and Equalities, said: “Birmingham is a city that offers a warm welcome to all and one where we want everyone to thrive.
“Our commitment to the Compassionate City Charter is a great way to recognise the kindness and compassion across our communities and build on work that’s already taken place and ensure all of our services, schools, employers and citizens can feel confident supporting people living with a serious illness or who are grieving.”
Shelforce’s Business Manager Howard Trotter said: “At Shelforce, we’ve benefitted hugely from the in-built resilience of disabled workers throughout our long history. They overcome bigger obstacles every day than many of us will face in a year – and that means they’ve got a toughness and a determination that’ll see them through any business or production issue in the workplace.
“It’s our aim to encourage other businesses in Birmingham to adopt our inclusive approach and, with this in mind, we look forward to getting involved in future events and initiatives with The Compassionate City Birmingham Network.”
Inclusive employers in Birmingham, with a passion to succeed
Since 1839, Shelforce has been working hard to break down the barriers for people with disabilities in order for them to gain access to worthwhile employment opportunities in Birmingham. So, if you’re interested in joining our diverse workforce, or want to know more about our high-quality window and door products, call our friendly team of experts on 0121 603 5262 or request a callback here.
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