At Sigma, we are proud to support a diverse workforce and inclusive workplace that embraces individual differences and diversity of thought, reflects the communities in which we live and operate, and encourages acceptance of people with disability.

Today, we celebrate International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD), a United Nations (UN) observed day to raise awareness, understanding and acceptance of the 5.5 million people with disability in Australia.

Disability in Australia¹

• 1 in 5 people with disability live in Australia
• Around 1 in 3 people with disability have severe or profound disability
• 1 in 10 people with disability have experienced discrimination
• More than half of all older persons in Australia live with disability
• 56% of people with disability aged 15-64 have a job.

Working with Disability at Sigma

Peter, who hails from Tasmania, started working for Sigma Healthcare at the age of sixteen and spent 47 years working for the organisation, demonstrating loyalty and commitment.

Throughout his career working across three different Distribution Centres (DCs), Peter saw significant changes in the technology used to pick, pack and deliver products to our Tasmanian pharmacy customers.  Although his Sigma journey ended with his retirement in 2022, his legacy and popularity with his team members remain.

Peter’s 47-year tenure is a testament to his perseverance and work ethic, but even more so when you consider that he lives with an intellectual disability. He loved his time at Sigma and the value his employment added to his life can’t be underestimated, nor should the value he provided to Sigma.

One of his previous workmates commented that the best thing about working with Peter was no matter how bad of a day you were having, he was always there with a laugh and a smile to make your day better. While another colleague commented that it was a great learning experience to work with a person with disability. To help make the workplace more inclusive, the team communicated well-defined timelines, provided clear instructions, used photos, and ensured Peter had workplace buddies to provide support.

And while he’s loving retirement, he still regularly stops by his old workplace to say hello and catch-up with his former colleagues.

We are grateful for Peter’s years of service and valuable contribution to Sigma Healthcare. We wish him all the best in retirement.

 

¹ https://www.idpwd.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/what-idpwd-web.pdf

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