A NEW initiative encouraging businesses and individuals to support inclusion and diversity in the workplace has been launched by a charity in memory of a father and employment rights advocate who died with his son following a hit-and-run collision in 2023.
Jersey Employment Trust, which helps Islanders with disabilities or long-term health conditions secure employment, is launching its Ambassadors programme at the Pomme d’Or Hotel today while paying tribute to Dean Lowe — who JET described as its “greatest ambassador”.
Mr Lowe (48) and his 11-year-old son, Charlie, were killed in a hit-and run collision on Rue de Fauvic in Grouville on the evening of 5 August 2023. Dylan Pounds was subsequently found guilty of causing their deaths by dangerous driving and sentenced to 15 years in prison.
Mr Lowe spent 17 years working with JET, first as an employment co-ordinator and later as employment engagement manager before his tragic death two years ago.
JET explained that he “worked tirelessly” to raise awareness of the barriers faced by Islanders with disabilities and long-term health conditions and worked to ensure JET became widely recognised by employers.
“More than anything, he wanted JET to be a household name, because it would make conversations with employers easier, open more doors, and ultimately be of benefit to our clients, many of whom continue to face barriers and stigma in the workplace,” the charity said in a statement.
The new JET Ambassadors programme aims to continue Mr Lowe’s work by enlisting representatives from a range of industries to advocate for employment opportunities for people who might otherwise struggle to find work.
“Anyone can be an Ambassador for the charity, including employers, clients, former clients, and representatives of agencies we work with. Above all, Ambassadors will be passionate about what we do, about diversity and inclusion, and breaking down barriers in society,’ the statement continued.
JET executive officer Penny Shurmer said that while the charity has made significant progress over the past two decades, more needs to be done to ensure equal access to employment.
She said: “There is still a pressing need for broader societal changes to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, has equal access to meaningful work opportunities.
“Advocacy, policy reforms, and sustained efforts from both the government and private sectors are essential to create a truly inclusive society.”
The first group of JET Ambassadors includes representatives from hospitality, banking, human resources, and former JET clients, as well as close friends of Mr Lowe.
The initial group includes Kenan Osborne, Kevin Lacey, Ana Cengic, Claire Reynard, Sue Gill, Hayley Routier, Kiley Henley, Tony Greed and JEP reporter Antonia Rubio.
