Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust (LSCft) has launched its Hidden Talents programme with an inclusive event held at Preston North End Football Club.

The launch coincides with Disability History Month after receiving funding from NHS England.

Hidden Talents is a development and career progression programme for LSCft disabled staff, as well as a select number of places for the local disabled community.

The programme is designed to support career conversations for those looking to develop and progress in their roles or looking for employment in the NHS.

The first disability event, which had 50 attendees, focused on career progression, development, employment and showcasing the strengths of disabled people.

The event was also live-streamed for people unable to attend in person.

It began with an introduction to the programme by Jo Harrison, diversity and inclusion manager, and Maria Nelligan, disability and long-term conditions network executive sponsor.

This was followed by an inspirational talk and confidence-building session from disability advocate, speaker and author Tracey Proudlock.

She shared her own lived experiences along with thought-provoking facts and figures, with discussions around language, labels, barriers and attitudes in and out of the workplace.

Attendees were invited to share their own experiences throughout the day – these could be shared anonymously through an interactive app or publicly during one of the open discussions that took place.

One attendee said: “I’ve really enjoyed the sessions today. I wanted to attend to hear more about how the NHS is working with staff who have disabilities and the reasonable adjustments that are available.

"The Trust shared their own figures around inclusion and demonstrated how they are continuously making improvements.

“I feel like I am leaving today with a new confidence and extra knowledge to approach my current employer with to discuss the adjustments I may need.”

All attendees were allowed to express their interest in having a career conversation and LSCft staff were invited to become Hidden Talent facilitators who will be trained to have career conversations with disabled staff and members of the community.

Jo Harrison said: “We are very excited to deliver a programme for disabled staff and members of the local disabled community.

“Designed in collaboration with the Trusts’ Disability and Long Term Conditions Staff Network, the programme will support individuals in becoming confident and motivated to develop and progress their careers or look for employment in the NHS.”