Local People Supporting Local People

Celebrating Inclusive Employment in East Cork 

There was a real sense of pride and community last week as Horizons celebrated that 75% of the people we support in Midleton and Carrigtwohill hubs are now taking part in paid work or weekly work experience. 

We marked the occasion with an Employers Recognition Event at Midleton Distillery Experience, bringing together local businesses, people we support and Horizons staff who are helping to make inclusion a reality across East Cork. 

Real People, Real Connections 

Jack Ryan works in the Midleton Distillery shop, he enjoys chatting with visitors from all over the world and helping them find the perfect whiskey. 

““Everyone loves Thursdays because Jack brings so much to the team with his honesty, integrity, smiles and making sure all customers are happy when they leave,” said Myles Keogh from the distillery team. 

Helen Flemming, who works with Savage Kids in Midleton, shared her love of meeting customers and seeing what new stock arrives. 

“Our customers range from young children to grandparents and everyone knows Helen and are thrilled to see her working in the shop. She has really excelled over the last two years in merchandising, meeting and greeting customers, sales and she is a real team player.” said owner Therese Savage. 

This event was all about saying thank you. 

Thank you to the 24 local businesses who have opened their doors. 

  • Dakota 
  • Walsh’s Carpets 
  • Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland 
  • Maxi Zoo 
  • Botanic Home & Garden Centre 
  • Bertelli Menswear 
  • GK Quick Tyres 
  • Midleton Distillery Experience 
  • Army Surplus Warehouse 
  • Mr. Price 
  • Juniper Rose 
  • Number 21 Off Licence 
  • Midleton Fitness 
  • Savage Kids 
  • An Rothar Cycle Centre 
  • Talbot Hotel Midleton 
  • Lollipop Kids 
  • Esquires 
  • XL Farrelly’s Service Station 
  • Centra – Cahill’s, Cloyne 
  • Midleton Football Club 
  • Gilead 
  • Unified 2 Global Packaging Group  
  • Skinvet Ireland 

Thank you for your patience and your belief in people. 

Each business received a plaque featuring Solomon’s Knot, symbolising connection, respect and working together. 

We were delighted to be joined by our partners including SECAD and Cork ETB, as well as guest speaker Donal Óg Cusack, who brought such positivity and encouragement to the event. 

Most of all, it was about community. 

This is what community looks like. 

This is what happens when people come together. 

Special thanks to all our staff at Horizons Midleton & Carrigtwohill Hubs who went above and beyond to organise this event.