Somerset Council is proud to announce a new two-year partnership with Evenbreak, a specialist inclusive recruitment and training organisation led by people with lived experience of disability, to deliver a new programme of accessibility and inclusion training.
This collaboration brings together Evenbreak’s expertise as a lived experience organisation and Somerset Council’s commitment to embedding equality, diversity and inclusion across its services and workforce.
The programme will help staff and partners build confidence, understanding and practical skills to improve accessibility and create more inclusive environments for all.
As part of the wider partnership, Somerset Council has asked Spark Somerset and Evenbreak to deliver a series of free training opportunities for local Voluntary, Community, Social Enterprise and Faith (VCSFE) organisations. For further details: Training and events – Spark Somerset
Delivered over 12 months, the sessions will explore key themes in accessibility and inclusion, helping organisations better support disabled people in their communities, workplaces and services.
Launching this collaboration provides a timely opportunity to celebrate the strengths, diversity and rights of disabled people while promoting greater understanding and inclusion across the county.
It also reflects Somerset Council’s commitment to working with partners and people with lived experience to help make Somerset a more accessible county where everyone can thrive
Councillor Cllr Evie Potts-Jones, Lead member for SEND, Public Health and Equality & Diversity, said:
“We are pleased to be working with Evenbreak to help strengthen accessibility and inclusion across Somerset. This partnership is about listening to people with lived experience, learning from their expertise and supporting staff, partners and local organisations to make practical changes that help more people feel included and supported.”
Meghan Reed, Chief Operating Officer, Evenbreak, said:
“Evenbreak is delighted to partner with Somerset Council on this initiative to deliver high-quality training, designed and delivered by our team of Deaf, disabled, and neurodivergent colleagues. Somerset Council is truly leading the way in embedding disability inclusion across all parts of the council and more broadly in the local community, and we are very proud to be part of that work.”
Liz Tozer, Training Manager at Spark Somerset said:
“We’re delighted to be working with the Council and Evenbreak to bring this free training to the VCFSE sector. We know organisations want to create more inclusive services and workplaces, and this programme gives them practical support to do just that. Our first session received really positive feedback, and we look forward to welcoming more organisations to future events.”
