Company strengthens commitment to SEND support

A construction company manager is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace environment where dedication and hard work are the cornerstones of success.

Willmott Dixon social value manager Natalie Sidey was speaking after meeting students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) at Barking & Dagenham College.

As part of the business’s ongoing Oxlow Bridge project, she spent the day with 120 SEND and neurodiverse students, leading workshops with four groups as part of the college’s Horizon programme.

She said: “I would like us to lead the charge in creating an inclusive work environment where being a hard worker counts.”

Oxlow Bridge School, located in the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham, is a collaboration between the Department for Education (DfE) technical advisers, Willmott Dixon

Construction, and the Partnership Learning Trust to create a new school for up to 100 pupils with profound and multiple learning (PMLD) difficulties.

During Natalie’s visit each session was tailored to the unique challenges and capabilities of the participants, underscoring the ongoing need for industries to embrace all learning styles.

The students, whose day-to-day challenges often include mastering skills like reading timetables to travelling independently, taught Natalie as much as she taught them.

She said: “I really enjoyed listening and learning from the young people, and it was great to hear their answers to the question, ‘What three positive words would you use to describe yourself?’ with answers like wonderful, fabulous, resilient, creative and respectful with ‘hard worker’ becoming the common thread of the day.”

Reflecting on the sector, she said: “Our industry hasn’t historically embraced these incredible individuals, but the smallest contribution can make a monumental difference.”

While health and safety regulations, including CSCS and other certifications, often make it difficult to employ individuals without formal qualifications, Natalie stressed the importance of creating opportunities.

This commitment to inclusivity aligns with Willmott Dixon’s broader efforts in the educational sector. The company has published a white paper, Building for All, which provides unique insight and guidance for local authorities developing a new generation of schools for SEND pupils.

The paper captures the lessons learned from various stakeholders – ranging from councils to architects – who are involved in creating specialised school accommodations.

Speaking of her insightful visit, Natalie said: “My visit to Barking & Dagenham College was possibly one of my most humbling experiences. The students had a contagious energy for life. They laughed with me, and at me sometimes too! All they really wanted was for someone to take the time to understand them and show a bit of patience.

“No matter their personal challenges, the students were lively and engaged. It’s clear they have so much to contribute if given the right support.”