CORONA VIRUS UPDATE

In a time of uncertainty we are working hard to give a meaningful future to adults overlooked because of their learning challenges. Help us riase enough to rent an office space, takeaway and training facility for the charity so that we can make sure that as many Katies as possible get the chance to shine....

Katies Story

Since meeting Paul when my daughter started working at The Priory Hotel I have been blown away by the selfless dedication that this person gives to all of the things that are important to him. My daughter Katie started working at The Priory on a voluntary basis back in 2016 and it was a real turning point in her life. Every time I talk to people about Katie's work they are amazed that such a place exists, a place where someone looks beyond a persons disabilities and instead is able to offer a chance for their abilities to shine through. Katie is autistic with learning difficulties and is therefore particularly vulnerable and unable to compete for jobs against others without these challenges. Since completing her college course she was left with little to keep her occupied and her self confidence had started to decline. Paul was able to offer a few hours a week working with his team in housekeeping and Katie suddenly had a reason to get up in the morning. She now works three days a week, receives a wage and has been encouraged to try some waitress duties too. In addition to this she has, with Paul's support, started an NVQ. Katie's self confidence has rocketed, she loves going to work and cherishes the friendships she has made there. This is all due to the time and effort that Paul constantly gives to all of his staff. He is able to strike the right balance of being an employer with the necessity to address issues of behavior and performance but at the same time, doing this with the consideration of the challenges that each member of the team brings with them.

The way that Paul runs The Priory isn't the easy way, as anyone who has a 'Katie' in their life will know. Paul has chosen this as he believes that everyone deserves a chance to show their true worth and for this Katie and her family are eternally grateful. Anita Grist

Paul says ... To me I just see people of diferent abilities, not labels , I believe in compassion NOT charity and for as long as I can remember I have been been priveleged to run The Priory in Louth surrounded by the most incredible team of people , please check out the team on social media / review sites - The Priory Hotel and also Serendipity restaurant . At the moment there are roughly 25 people in the team and 80% of them have been overlooked due to a mental, physical or emotional disability. I desperately want to do more by giving The Serendipity Iniative a permant home where we will support and train people to go onto roles in places like the hotel and help them to find meaningful work and if it's right for them independence. As well as well as mentoring vlunteers to be befrienders and mentors. However it does not stop there, we are working towards establishing and working with more businesses around the world to make sure that together we can show that people with learning challenges are just people.

Anita's words have made me realise I can do more so I am reaching out for your help to support these amazing people and give them and more people like Katie the chance to shine in a way that ripples like a wave through their lives, their family and their community.

Every penny that you can spair makes a diference. Thank you so much for your time and for any way you can support the team even just spreading the word.