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Publish date: 31 July 2024
Only about 4.8% of people in England with a learning disability and/or autism go on to secure paid employment*, compared to 80% of their peers. This is something that a partnership between Chesterfield Royal Hospital, Derbyshire County Council, Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP), Derbyshire Adult Community Education Service (DACES), Sodexo and others are aiming to change, by widening access opportunities for young people to train, build their skills and move into paid employment.
DFN Project SEARCH is a one-year transition-to-work programme for young adults with a learning disability and/or autism. During the programme interns get the chance to work in different areas on rotation, giving them different work experience opportunities and skills.
Chesterfield Royal Hospital recently hosted a graduation ceremony for 13 Project SEARCH interns who have completed placements in areas such as catering, linen management and portering – inviting them, their mentors and families along to celebrate their achievements.
Amrayt Atwal who has autism graduated after placements at Chesterfield Royal and Derby Royal Hospital in sterilisation and catering, he said: “This placement has changed me, and I feel more confident about getting a job. People have taken the time to support me and help me through, even when they have also been busy. I was a bit nervous when I first joined the programme but I’m really glad I did this, as I wouldn’t be where I am now!”
Over 100 people joined the interns and their families to mark the occasion. Nina Atwal, Amrayt’s mum, spoke about how the programme has supported them and the impact on Amrayt and his family.
She said: “The changes and development in Amrayt as an individual have been amazing. All of his placements have taught him not just the job in hand but also vital life skills confidence, independence, problem solving and communication! This programme is giving our young people an environment of belonging, inclusion, and a place where their contributions and achievements are valued. This is what makes everyone thrive and succeed. He is leaving the programme a proud, confident and independent young man and has secured a job he loves, as a Ward Host at Derby Royal Hospital! Me and my family will be forever grateful to every single person who has supported Amrayt and cheered him on from the sidelines!”
Mahmud Nawaz, Chair of Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Project SEARCH is more than just a programme. It is a testament to what can be accomplished when we come together with a shared vision – a vision of inclusivity, opportunity and empowerment. Nationally, 70% of DFN Project SEARCH graduates gain employment, so it really is a powerful programme. One that provides interns with the skills, experience and confidence to step into the workforce and as an employer, it gives us the skills and experience to make better adjustments and become a more inclusive employer.
He added: “At Team CRH we are committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity and opportunity. We believe in the potential of every individual, and we are dedicated to supporting initiatives like Project SEARCH that empower and uplift our community.”
* who are known to local authorities