A partnership between SecuriGroup and Down’s Syndrome Scotland is helping people with Down’s syndrome secure paid roles at one of Scotland's highest-profile sporting events, Glasgow 2026, challenging long-standing barriers to employment and creating new opportunities within the events and security sector.

The initiative sees candidates gaining hands-on experience through paid event roles in a major event environment while building skills, confidence and independence.

The programme comes at a time when employment inequalities remain significant across the UK. Government figures show that the employment rate for disabled people is 53.1%, compared with 81.6% for non-disabled people.

For people with learning disabilities, the gap is even greater. Fewer than 5% of people with a learning disability are in paid employment, despite 86% of those without a paid job saying they would like one.

Against that backdrop, the partnership between SecuriGroup and Down’s Syndrome Scotland is creating paid employment opportunities for individuals and the chance to gain experience within Scotland's events and security sector, while demonstrating the value of a more inclusive workforce.

The individuals recruited through this partnership are not only contributing to the visitor experience but also developing transferable workplace skills that can support future careers.

As employers across the security and events industries continue to focus on attracting and developing talent, the initiative highlights the importance of widening access to employment and creating pathways for people who are often overlooked despite having the ambition and ability to succeed.

“Major sporting events bring people together and create unforgettable experiences for athletes, spectators and communities alike. We're incredibly proud to be creating paid employment opportunities for individuals as part of that journey.

Every person involved in delivering an event of this scale plays an important role in its success. Seeing our team members build confidence, develop new skills and contribute to such a high-profile occasion demonstrates the positive impact these opportunities can have, both for the individual and for the wider industry.”, said John Gallacher, Operations Director at SecuriGroup.

Monica O’Brien, Recruitment Manager at SecuriGroup, adds: "At SecuriGroup, we believe talent exists everywhere, but opportunity doesn't always. Our partnership with Down’s Syndrome Scotland is about creating meaningful pathways into employment and demonstrating what can be achieved when barriers are removed and potential is recognised.

The security and events industries need diverse talent and different perspectives. By providing paid employment opportunities at a major event, we're helping individuals develop skills and confidence while showing employers the value that a truly inclusive workforce can bring. We hope this initiative encourages more organisations to look beyond traditional recruitment approaches and create opportunities for people who are ready and eager to work."

Jo Davidson, Programme Lead at Down’s Syndrome Scotland said: "When someone with Down’s syndrome is given an equal chance to work, it changes everything. Having a meaningful job transforms lives - improving health, boosting mental wellbeing, and creating a sense of independence and purpose. Above all, it creates visibility in the workplace, challenging outdated stereotypes and shifting company culture.

That’s why this partnership with SecuriGroup is so vital. An event like this isn't just work; it’s an opportunity to build confidence, gain real skills, and show employers what’s possible.”

The partnership reflects a shared commitment to improving accessibility, widening participation and helping more people with Down syndrome gain access to meaningful work opportunities.

While people with learning disabilities remain among the least likely groups to be in employment, this partnership demonstrates what is possible when organisations are willing to invest in potential, challenge perceptions and create opportunities that empower people to succeed.



As Scotland welcomes thousands of visitors, athletes and officials, the initiative offers a powerful example of inclusion in action, proving that opportunity, support and belief can unlock talent in every community.