Mind Your P’s – Edel Harris, CEO of Mencap

Intro

In 2020, Edel Harris joined Mencap as CEO of the UK’s largest charity working with and for people with a learning disability. Joining eight weeks before the pandemic hit the UK, it was a baptism by fire. Edel has a long history working third and public sector, having been Chief Executive of Cornerstone, a former Metropolitan Police Officer, and spent 8 years working for NHS Grampian. Edel is a powerhouse when it comes to setting up and leading successful social enterprises and in developing new social care services.  

Amongst Edel’s many achievements she was awarded the 2015 IOD North East Director of the Year accolade and in 2017 became the Edel has won Scottish EY Entrepreneur of the Year in 2017, 2015 IOD North East Director of the Year, and was awarded an honorary doctorate from Robert Gordon University for her contribution to charity and business (and that’s just naming a few!)

Edel talks to us about the challenges people with learning disabilities face and how the pandemic has hit them hardest. Listen as Edel shares how employers can support people with learning disabilities and how she makes sure she’s never out of reach for Mencap’s 9000+ strong team.

Follow Edel’s journey

LinkedIn: @Mencap, Edel Harris

YouTube: Mencap

Facebook: @mencap

Twitter: @mencap_charity, @edelharris

Instagram: @mencap

Web: mencap.org.uk

What you’ll learn

• How employers support people with learning disabilities in the workplace
• Edel makes sure she’s never out of reach for her employees
• Shocking statistics about how people with learning disabilities are much more likely to die from Covid

Mentions

• Cornerstone – care and support services for children and adults
• Foyer Graphics, The Trading Corner – social good places where Edel likes to shop
• Social Bite – social enterprise cafes and homes committed to helping people dealing with homelessness
• Homes For Good  – Scotland first social enterprise Letting Agency
• National Autistic Society , The Robertson Trust, Aberdeen Football Club Community Trust, Aberdeen Grampian Chamber of Commerce, Commonwealth Games

Transcript