Hawk Pijl
It’s over ten years since Hawk Pijl was first introduced to the Northern Health and Social Care Trust’s Day Opportunities service.
At that time, adding structure to his daily life, gaining employment and increasing his income were his long term goals. Fast forward to today, and Hawk has achieved all of these things and more.
Now a proud father-of-one, Hawk works as a delivery driver for McKee’s Butchers in Maghera where he is excelling in his role as a fully independent member of staff.
Reflecting on his experience, Hawk said:
“Over the years, the support offered to me has allowed me to get experience in a number of roles. This all went well and now I’m really enjoying my job with McKee’s – I’ve always loved driving so it is the ideal role for me.
“I set myself a new goal to transition out of Day Opportunities before my first child was born and I am so pleased that I have achieved this.”
Briege McGillian, Day Opportunities Coordinator, added:
“It’s been an absolute pleasure being part of Hawk’s journey to success. It is clear to see how happy he is in his role, and his confidence and commitment make him a dependable and efficient team member.
“We are all delighted by Hawk’s ongoing success which allowed him to reach his goal as he officially completed his time with Day Opportunities before becoming a father.
“As we celebrate 20 years of Day Opportunities creating opportunities for all across the Northern Trust, Hawk’s full circle experience shows the lasting difference the programme can make on people’s lives.
“On behalf of the entire service, I want to congratulate him on everything he has achieved and extend my best wishes to him and his family for the future.”
Hawk was supported in his current employment through Mencap’s Workable Programme, which helps people with a learning disability to keep working by providing one-to-one support. This equipped him with the necessary skills to work independently and thrive in the workplace.
As Hawk embarks on this new stage of his life, Mencap Employment Officer Kerry Eakin said:
“I am extremely proud of how Hawk has progressed in his role as Delivery Driver at McKee’s. Hawk takes all advice on board and carries out his work to a great standard. He is an excellent team player and he really was a joy to work with.”
Paul Gibson, Managing Director at McKee’s, said:
“The support and guidance we have received has been invaluable. It’s been a pleasure watching Hawk’s confidence grow, and he is now a vital member of the team.”
The Northern Trust’s Day Opportunities service supports adults with a learning disability to ensure they can live life to the fullest and achieve their true potential.
Over the past two decades, it has helped to transform many lives right across the Northern Trust locality and has consistently demonstrated the power of opportunity.
As the service celebrates its 20th anniversary in the Northern Trust, we hope these personal stories from carers and service users like Hawk will be as motivational and inspiring to you as they are to us.