HONEY Bun Limited has forged a partnership with Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities, Ready to Sign, and the Ministry of Labour in an effort to fortify the baking company’s recruitment policy, which will align with the 2014 Disabilities Act.

According to Flona Brooks, human resource manager at the 42-year-old bakery, “This thrust is not new to Honey Bun, because we have been hiring persons with disabilities for some time now.

“The formal initiative, however, is new. This initiative and our recruitment policy are about hiring competent people with the skills who can work within our industry. While the company will not be able to hire persons with all disabilities, we are committed to ensure that there is equal opportunity for all Jamaicans.”

As part of the proactive initiative, Ready to Sign recently conducted the first in a series of workshops at Honey Bun’s Retirement Crescent location, designed to enhance the interaction and accessibility of services for the deaf community.

“By taking a holistic approach to inclusivity, we aim to ensure that our initiatives support the unique needs of individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing,” said Brooks.

“Recruitment is a crucial process at Honey Bun, and the aim is to enhance our operational sustainability. Inclusivity in the recruitment process is essential in any organisation as it not only fulfils ethical and legal obligations, but also confers many benefits to ensure that we are hiring without bias, which will help to enhance our competitive advantage.

“Diversification in our hiring process also brings into play varied backgrounds, perspectives, and experience that will assist us to drive innovation,” added Brooks.

She noted that current members of staff with visible or invisible disabilities are thriving at Honey Bun, with one employee promoted within three months after being employed.

“This success story is just one of many demonstrating our dedication to providing equal opportunities for all,” said Brooks.

In the meantime, Honey Bun’s deputy CEO Daniel Chong said the company is happy to have an excellent team that includes people from various backgrounds.

“We believe in providing employment opportunities for anyone who can work, with no discrimination based on physical challenges or anything else. Not only is this better for us at Honey Bun as a company, but it’s also better for Jamaica,” said Chong.

The Jamaica Council for persons with Disabilities will be partnering with Honey Bun to offer sensitisation and training for staff members to enhance communication and interaction.

“The company will not be able to facilitate all disabilities, but the candidates who are able to work in a manufacturing environment. Persons are hired based on their ability not their disability,” declared Brooks.