Getting work and being included

Gary's story.

Gary does not use words. Brian, his big brother, talked to Gary and told his story for him.

Gary likes being around people but not having to say too much. He likes to keep his surroundings tidy, and he likes to have something to do.

He got bored being at home over the holidays from school and then college, so our uncle suggested he come over to his firm, which delivers goods to local businesses. I did that too when I was that age.

Gary enjoyed going out in the van and meeting people and helping with the boxes. His favourite job was sweeping up. He got much more confident as he got to know the other people who worked there.

One of the warehouses Gary used to visit was looking for someone to keep the warehouse tidy. Our uncle helped him write a letter explaining all the things he was good at and what would help him do a good job.

Gary went with Uncle Bill to meet the manager and they talked about how Gary could do the job. Gary got the job at the warehouse.

We all had to then think about how we would help Gary get on ok at work. For example:

• Mum got leaflets that explained about how some people don't use words, and left these with his boss in case they came in handy.
• Gary likes just being beside people he knows when he is a bit anxious. One of my friends, Steve, worked in an office near Gary's new job. He was good at arranging to meet Gary at lunch time for the first few weeks so they could just sit together and eat their sandwiches. His boss was good about that too.
• Dad and Uncle Bill gave Gary lifts to work for the first few weeks, but then went with him on the bus route, until he knew it himself.

Gary likes his job a lot. He is proud when the workshop is tidy and likes it when people notice and say thank you. He has started going out on the runs more now, as he is so fast at clearing up. He also likes getting his wages and spending his money.

I think that going to work has been the best thing for Gary. He is much more confident now. He is more at ease around people he doesn't know. He always was happy in himself and that hasn't changed.

The people at his work have been fine with him - Mum and Dad were worried about that, but it has been ok.

Most blokes think it is just ordinary to go out for a pint with their brother. For us, it is a big step. He even buys his round. I'm so proud of him.