Cork Pub Uses A Screen App To Help A Team Member Thrive

Geary's bar in Charleville, Co Cork, has hired David Mullins, 25, who has an intellectual disability. He takes orders, waits tables and serves guests with the rest of the team.

He is helped by AssistiV Ireland. Its screen app breaks tasks into simple visual and audio cues, so reading, numbers and confidence are less of a barrier.

Corina Gough, general manager at Geary's, says the technology has been instrumental in helping David work with more independence. David says the job has given him confidence and independence.

We want to show employers that inclusive employment is achievable, practical, and hugely rewarding.

AssistiV is supporting 23 roles in hospitality and 25 in other sectors. It wants to reach 1,000 users by 2030. Heineken Ireland has joined the effort as a partner.

Inclusion Ireland puts the employment rate for people with disabilities at 32.6%. For people with an intellectual disability it is 17%.

What Does This Mean For Your Restaurant?

A tool like this can widen your pool of staff at a time when hiring is hard. If you want to try it, ask the provider how training and set-up work for a small team.