SEND Youngsters Influencing Social Change in South Tyneside

An accessibility audit has been conducted at the Dogger Bank Operations & Maintenance (O&M) Base in South Shields as part of a bold and empowering new local initiative that addresses the economic and social exclusion faced by young people with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities).

The Don’t Dis My Ability programme is run by Our 1 Community, a South Tyneside Pledge organisation.  It places the lived experiences of young people with SEND at the heart of its mission, recognising them as experts in their own lives and providing them with a platform to influence real social change.

Through activities such as auditing businesses, participants provide invaluable insights into accessibility and inclusion while earning income for their expertise. This uniquely blends work experience, social mobility, and paid freelance opportunities, positioning participants not just as learners but as specialists.

With professional guidance, the young people consult, advise, and advocate on behalf of SEND individuals, gaining skills in investigation, analysis, and reporting that drive meaningful change for businesses, communities, and the future of SEND employment.

The team from Equinor, who are also a South Tyneside Pledge organisation, opened their doors earlier in the year for an audit. Their multi-million- pound O&M Base serves what will be the world’s biggest offshore wind farm. It includes offices, training and welfare space for those based onshore; quay access for vessels and a warehouse to store spare parts for the wind farm.

Kay Doragh, Community Investment Manager at Equinor said:

“We were immediately interested in the audit offer as it was refreshing to see young people at the centre, using their lived experience to test out working environments. It was very easy to accommodate and the report is clear about areas we can take action on. We’ve also shared it with colleagues in other countries who are designing O&M bases right now so we can apply the learnings. I would recommend getting involved and seeing your business from another perspective.”

Speaking about the initiative Chris Pickering of Our 1 Community said:

“Investing in the inclusion of young people with SEND is not just the right thing to do; it makes economic sense. A more inclusive workforce can benefit everyone. Employers who embrace diversity and make reasonable adjustments often find that their workplaces become more adaptable and innovative.

“Moreover, the skills and perspectives that young people with SEND bring can be a tremendous asset, particularly in roles that require attention to detail, creative problem-solving, and empathy.

“We sincerely thanks the team at Equinor for commissioning this audit and hope that other Pledge organisations will also be interested.”

Cllr Margaret Meling, cabinet member for economic growth and transport at South Tyneside Council, added:

“Equipping people with the skills to gain sustainable employment, no matter what barriers they may face, is one of our key priorities.

“As an organisation, we are passionate about equality and diversity, and are committed to providing a safe, inclusive working environment where everyone feels they can bring their authentic self to work – and recognise the benefits of this to the entire workforce.”

An accessibility audit can offer several benefits to businesses, including improved inclusivity, legal compliance, and enhanced customer experience. The South Tyneside Pledge aims to encourage South Tyneside organisations to focus on local activities and practical steps that can help South Tyneside to thrive. One of the key aims is to encourage local recruitment, with a real focus upon Care Leavers, carers and those with learning difficulties. It is hoped more South Tyneside Pledge organisations will support the local initiative which can help contribute to this. To do so please email our1community@gmail.com