Private Sector

2005 Overall Winner - Private Sector

Name of organisation:
Superquinn

Number of employees:
4200

Industry Sector:
Retail

Some examples of what Superquinn have done:

Leadership

All staff are included in review and evaluation process of business strategy led by chairman and the board
Code of practice for the employment of people with disabilities
Dignity at Work policy
Major emphasis on ‘healthy food’ linked to organisations such as the Irish Heart Foundation and Irish Association for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (IASBAH).
Magazines and surveys to communicate and evaluate their commitment to disability issues

Environmental Accessibility

Parking facilities for people with disabilities with well maintained walkway from car park to shop door
Access to shopping areas is clear of obstruction, wide and supervised
Special trolleys available for wheelchair users
Shopping assistant who will look after customer for duration of visit to the store is available on request
Accessible toilet facilities
Assessment of employees’ tasks and equipment they may need is carried out and arrangements put in place
Office area is very spacious and can easily be adapted to suit wheelchair use

Customer Service

All staff receive Disability Awareness Training in induction, plus refresher courses, plus sessions in monthly meetings
Customer panel feedback becomes an Action Plan and must be completed
Changes have been made to shop design, layout services and products as a result of feedback from customers with disabilities
Work with Diabetes Federation, Irish Heart Foundation, IASBAH and the Coeliac Society of Ireland to reduce salt content in foods, widely publicised on TV and radio
Excellent customer care programme
Specifically target customers with disabilities

Recruitment & Selection

Written and online applications accepted
Accommodations are made for candidates with disabilities coming for interview
Interview is based only on the ability and competency required for the particular job
An appointment manager will explain on a one-to-one basis the contract and the Q&A booklet if necessary
Induction programme includes a range of disability videos and supporting workbooks and use group activity to explore ideas relating to disability

Career Development, Training & Retention

Dignity at work policy – all employees afforded equal opportunities in terms of training and development
In house training is provided and on a one-to-one basis if necessary
The attendance policy includes all supports and services for people who acquire a disability
Employee Assistance Programme in place – well used and publicised
Workplace Health Programme takes a proactive approach to health promotion