Determination Triumphs: Ciara Lawrence's Journey at Mencap
By Ellise Hollie-Hayward, Disabilities Correspondent
In a testament to perseverance and advocacy, Ciara Lawrence, a woman with a learning disability, has become a beacon of hope for many.
For 24 years, Ciara Lawrence has been an integral part of Mencap, the UK's leading learning disability charity, where she now serves as Engagement Lead in the communications, campaigns and advocacy directorate.
Lawrence's journey began in the early 2000s when, fresh out of college, she faced significant challenges in finding employment.
"Application forms and interviews were very difficult for her to go through," sources close to Lawrence revealed.
Her breakthrough came in 2001 when a disability employment officer at her local job centre introduced her to Mencap.
"There's a job opening at Mencap as an office admin person, part-time. Are you interested?" the officer asked.
Lawrence seized the opportunity, and after a skills-focused interview, she secured a part-time position, marking the beginning of her impressive career trajectory.
With lived experience, Lawrence is passionate about empowering others with learning disabilities.
"I want other people with a learning disability like me to be able to speak up for themselves, to be able to say when things aren't OK, to be able to have a job like anybody else, to have relationships like anybody else, to have a home like anybody else, to have healthcare like anybody else," she states.
Lawrence's advocacy stems from personal challenges, including bullying and difficulties in finding work and housing. Her goal is to raise awareness and create a world where individuals with learning disabilities can assert their rights and access necessary support.
At Mencap, the vision is clear:
"We want the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy, healthy lives," Lawrence explains.
She acknowledges that attitudinal barriers persist, fueling her determination to effect change.
Looking ahead, Lawrence aspires to climb even higher in her career.
"I would love to be a chief executive of a charity one day," she shares.
Additionally, she finds fulfillment in mentoring young people with learning disabilities and supporting parents navigating similar challenges.
Lawrence's message to the public is clear:
"Meet people like Ciara who have a learning disability because people with learning disabilities just like you, they might just need extra support in their lives to achieve things."
She emphasizes the transformative power of changing perspectives, quoting a poignant lyric from the musical Kinky Boots: "You change the world when you change your mind."
In her current role, Lawrence works alongside individuals with learning disabilities, providing support, encouragement, and a living example that with determination, anyone can achieve their goals.
