Emmanuel Mendes

When did you join ILG?

I joined ILG in May 2022.

Why did you join ILG?

The agency assisting me with finding work recommended ILG.  As I am deaf, there are few organisations that would give me the opportunity to even interview for a position. ILG are very inclusive, and saw me as a potential employee, not as a deaf person. I work here because I have never found any barriers to my disability. I am treated fairly and with respect. ILG has a good reputation for equality.

Talk us through you career journey at ILG

When I first started, I was trained in the warehouse on picking initially. I was then later trained in shipping as well. It’s nice to have a mix and able to be flexible.

What does your job involve?

My role now is both picking and shipping in the warehouse. I am happy for the managers to use me where they need me. I also attend quarterly meetings at our East Grinstead site in my role as Health & Safety representative, to report issues and ask questions.

What training and development opportunities have you had at ILG?

“ILG identified my skills and experience in Health & Safety, and trained me to become a Health & Safety representative at my site in Salfords. I enjoy this aspect of my work because I know the rules and I can sometimes identify things others may miss because I am very visually aware.”

What do you like about working at ILG?

I really like the people I work with, it’s just great teamwork. I enjoy coming to work. Everyone tries to communicate with me and to include me, which can be good fun! I feel supported and safe at ILG.

The managers Oscar, Yousef, Marianna and Craig are the best I have ever had, they are always busy but do their best to make time for me if I have a question, they are very patient and understanding.

What advice would you give to anyone considering applying to ILG?

It has taken me a long time to find an employer who is willing to give me an opportunity to prove myself and who also has great deaf awareness. ILG even organised deaf awareness training across many of their sites for their employees, it’s just wonderful.

I cannot recommend ILG highly enough and will always work hard and be grateful. There are no barriers at ILG – everyone is treated equally, with fairness and respect.

I am a very lucky man.